The Health Education Systems, Inc. test is used by many nursing schools, and is the assessment that nursing students must pass in order to obtain a degree. It is recommended that students obtain a study guide and practice test to prepare for this challenging exam. The questions on the HESI test include math, therapeutic communication, questions about medication administration and post-operative care. There is HESI Exam test simulation software availible for purchase.
Most nursing schools require that students take an entrance exam before starting a nursing education program. This assessment determines the level of learning and is taken only once. The test is approximately 2 1/2 hours long and covers a number of subjects, but reading and math are the scores that matter the most. Students who do not do well are required to take remedial math and reading classes. Nursing Entrance Exam study guides and practice tests are sold in the book stores of college campuses and many large bookstore chains.
Once a nursing degree has been obtained, a student must test for a license. Two tests, the NCLEX-RN and the NCLEX-PN, are required to become a licensed nursing professional. The NCLEX-RN is required to become a licensed registered nurse, and the NCLEX-PN is required to become a licensed practical nurse. Although each is very comprehensive and many students experience a lot of anxiety about having to take the exam, there are many practice books, websites, study guides and test prep classes offered.