NCLEX Study Notes

EMPOWER YOUR SUCCESS: ARCHER REVIEW'S INTERACTIVE NCLEX WORKBOOK 2026 STUDY NOTES

Table of Contents

• Cardiovascular System
• Respiratory System
• Prioritization
• Introduction to Day 2
• Nervous System
• Gastrointestinal System
• Renal System
• Shock
• Endocrine
• Introduction to Day 3
• Part II: System-by-System
• Maternity
• Labor and Delivery
• Pediatrics
• Mental Health
• Part III: Specialties
• Test-Taking Strategies
• Mock NCLEX Score Sheet
• Mock NCLEX Answer Key
• Part IV: Wrap-Up
• You Finished the 3-Day Live Review
• 6-Week Study Plan
• 12-Week Study Plan
• Daily Planner
• Next Steps

Preparation for Live Review

• General How To: Zoom
  • Receive an invitation via email registered for the review.
  • Confirm date and time.
  • Ensure device is charged with stable internet.
  • Download the Zoom app or use web browser.
  • Use chat and Q&A for communication.

Taking Effective Notes

• Preparation

  • Familiarize with basic concepts.

• Active Listening

  • Focus on instructors, key points, and essential concepts.

• Highlighting Information

  • Use visual aids such as bold text.

• Reviewing

  • Summarize main points in your own words after each session.

Welcome to Archer Review

• Breaks

  • 15-minute breaks scheduled, 45-minute lunch.

• Optional Q&A

  • Held at the end of Day 1 and Day 2.

• Recordings

  • Available for SurePass combo purchasers on-demand.

• Questions and Support

  • Reach out to support for any inquiries or issues.

Day 1 Schedule

Foundations Part I

• Acid-Base Balance and ABG Interpretation

  • Normal pH: (7.35 - 7.45)
  • Bicarbonate (HCO₃) Normal Values: (22-28 ext{ mEq/L})
  • Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) Normal Values: (35-45 ext{ mm Hg})
  • Metabolic vs. Respiratory contributions to acid-base balance explained.
  • Metabolic Acidosis: ext{Decrease in HCO₃} or increased acid production.
  • Resp. Acidosis: ext{Increase in CO₂} .
  • Compensation is the body's attempt to return pH to normal: (7.35-7.45).

• Compensation Types

  • Uncompensated: pH outside normal and compensation mechanisms not evident.
  • Partially Compensated: pH still abnormal; compensation is occurring.
  • Fully Compensated: pH back to normal with HCO₃ or CO₂ adjustments.

Calculation of ABG values and Interpretation

• Example Scenario 1:

  • Patient ABG:
  • (pH = 7.58)
  • (CO₂ = 35 mm Hg)
  • (HCO₃ = 41 mEq/L)
  • Interpretation would be: Alkalosis due to high HCO₃, evaluated compensation status.

• Example Scenario 2:

  • Patient presents with respiratory acidosis, etiology explained, compensatory mechanisms noted.

• Knowledge Check on ABGs

  • Step-by-step interpretation of ABG abnormalities in recorded patient cases.

IV Fluids and Tonicity

• Isotonic IV Fluids

  • Examples:
  • Lactated Ringer's, 0.9% Sodium Chloride (Normal Saline)
  • Indicated for blood loss or maintenance fluids.

• Hypotonic IV Fluids

  • Moves fluid into cells; indicated for treating hypernatremia.

• Hypertonic IV Fluids

  • Moves fluid into blood vessels; indicated for conditions like cerebral edema.

Electrolytes and Their Values

• Sodium Normal Range: (135-145 ext{ mEq/L})
• Potassium Normal Range: (3.5-5 ext{ mEq/L})
• Calcium Normal Range: (9-10.5 ext{ mg/dL})
• Magnesium Normal Range: (1.5-2.5 ext{ mg/dL})

Key Symptoms and Interventions per Electrolyte Imbalance

• Hypernatremia: Signs include agitation, thirst, and decreased LOC.
• Hyponatremia: Caused by too much fluid etc.; recognize cues and treat accordingly.

Renal System Overview

• Function of Kidneys: Essential for filtration, balance electrolytes, and waste removal.
• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): Definitions, classifications, and nursing interventions.

Shock Overview and Types

• Definition of Shock: Inadequate tissue perfusion leads to cellular death.
• Hypovolemic Shock: Due to blood loss; interventions include IV fluids, medications to restore blood volume.
• Septic Shock: Clinical signs, treatment protocols, and early recognition to prevent progression.

Conclusion

• Studying the topics extensively and systematically reviewing all content areas enhances knowledge retention essential for NCLEX success.

Next Steps

1. Choose between a 6-Week Plan (intensive) or a 12-Week Plan (flexible).
2. Maintain daily study habits and consistently check readiness assessments.
3. Utilize Archer Review resources effectively for deeper understanding and application of nursing concepts.
4. Prioritize self-care throughout study periods and monitor your academic progress.