There is no doubt that it takes a lot of time, energy, and hard work to become a nurse. The schooling programs are rigorous and lengthy, and for good reason. These are the people we entrust our health to, after all!
A look at any website that shows the requirements can give you a good idea of this, if you’re unfamiliar with it. However, I think most of us are. So, you might think that to take up something called traveling nursing, there are no extra steps. However, that isn’t exactly the case.
Rather, there are a few other requirements and examinations that you will probably need to undertake. One such is the PBDS, or performance-based development system test. Many facilities are asking for applicants to share their results and scores, so if you are looking into this field, this article can provide you with some valuable insights.
What is the exam?
The primary purpose of it is to test takers on their critical thinking skills. This is something very important in this profession, after all. If you’re travelling and don’t know the patients well, especially, you may need to be quick on your feet and able to react accordingly in emergency situations.
There are a few areas explored within this facet of the exam, though. This includes risk management, of course. Additionally, there is interpersonal skills, team-building assessments, and problem-solving. Naturally, technical ability is also measured.
I know it already sounds like a lot. There’s more, though, which is part of why a PBDS study guide critical care can be of use to you as you prepare. Something you should remember about it is that it is administered entirely on a computer. There are no multiple-choice questions.
Rather, the nurses who take the test will end up watching some videos or clips of an interaction with a patient. After that, their goal is to figure out what the main problem is, then apply their knowledge to handling it efficiently and with regard to the patient. There is a time limit, so prioritization will be another important skill to utilize.
The usual time it takes for most to complete is five hours. It’s a fairly hefty examination with a lot involved. The scoring system is fairly simple, with “acceptable” and “unacceptable ratings.” Along with that, a report is sent to the facility of your choice with specific feedback.
Studying for it
Now that you know what it entails, you’re probably wondering how you can prepare for such an undertaking. It does seem monumental at first, but if you approach it in waves rather than trying to dive in all at once, you’ll probably find it to be a much more manageable task.
I would say it’s a good idea to review resources like this one first, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm, as a base knowledge of the profession is necessary to excel on a test like this. After that, though, shifting your attention to more specialized preparation is advisable.
Thankfully, there are many resources available to assist in this. If you’re not sure where to start, perhaps look at testimonies from other nurses who are discussing it online. There’s no shortage of blog posts explaining more of what is entailed, for example.
Study guides are something that I’ve always found quite helpful when I’m studying. Sometimes I use them to make flash cards, too! While there are no multiple-choice questions or anything on the PBDS, that doesn’t mean you can’t get ready for it using some traditional studying techniques.
There’s a reason they’re so effective, after all, so don’t knock them until you try them. Like I said, your most valuable resource will probably be other nurses, but many of the websites that offer guides and flash cards do come from professionals with the actual exam questions in mind.
Preparing
Obviously, looking at those study guides is a great way to get yourself ready. However, I think we underestimate the important of physical preparation as well. What do I mean by that?
Primarily, I’m referring to self-care. I don’t necessary mean doing a facemask or some elaborate skin care ritual. Rather, getting a good night of sleep, eating a proper breakfast, and getting some water into your system beforehand can do wonders for your performance.
I don’t recommend that you pull an all-nighter beforehand, especially. While you might think you’re getting more prep time in, realistically speaking it is only harming your performance and critical thinking capabilities. It’s hard to focus when our eyes are drooping shut the entire time.
If you’re going to take the PBDS, I wish you the best of luck. If you take some of my advice and consult with others in your field, I’m sure you’ll find it to be a worthwhile endeavor!
