エピソード

  • 149: Zebra Questions: Exam Strategies for the Unexpected with Kaitlyn D
    2025/10/01
    No matter how well you prepare, every NP exam includes a few questions that make you stop and think, “What in the world is this?” These are the infamous "zebra questions," the ones designed to test how you handle uncertainty rather than how much obscure content you’ve memorized. The goal isn’t to know every rare diagnosis, but to stay calm, think critically, and move forward with confidence.

    In this episode, Kaitlyn and I break down how to approach these unexpected, seemingly impossible exam questions using logic and reasoning rather than panic. We walk through real examples, including cases like blue skin discoloration after well water exposure and cave explorers with fungal infections, showing how to use context clues, process of elimination, and strategic thinking to find your best answer, even when the condition is brand new to you.

    Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://blog.npreviews.com/np-board-exam-strategies-absolutes-opposites-kaitlyn-d

    Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/smnpreviewsofficial

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    17 分
  • 148: NP Board Exam Strategies: Absolutes and Opposites with Kaitlyn D
    2025/09/17

    Test-taking strategies can make the difference between passing and failing your nurse practitioner board exam. When you're staring at a question where multiple answers seem plausible, knowing how to spot certain patterns in the answer choices can boost your chances from 25% to 50% or even 75% accuracy.

    In this episode, Kaitlyn and I continue our mini-series on test-taking strategies, focusing on how to use absolute and opposite answer choices to your advantage. Learn not just what the right answer is, but why it’s right, and how to apply these strategies across a variety of question types on the exam.

    Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://blog.npreviews.com/np-board-exam-strategies-absolutes-opposites-kaitlyn-d

    Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/smnpreviewsofficial

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    17 分
  • 147: Dissecting Practice Questions: How to Read the Lead-In with Kaitlyn D
    2025/09/03

    When you’re taking a certification exam, every single word matters. One misread keyword can be the difference between choosing the right answer and falling into a carefully laid trap.

    In this episode, I’m joined by my colleague Kaitlyn, a family nurse practitioner and test question expert who’s written thousands of exam questions throughout her career. Together, we break down how test questions are structured and share strategies for avoiding common test-taking pitfalls so you can choose the right answer with confidence.

    Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://blog.npreviews.com/dissecting-practice-questions-read-lead-in-kaitlyn-d/

    Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/smnpreviewsofficial

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    16 分
  • 146: Your NP Board Prep Hub: Resources and Our New Instagram with Courtney
    2025/08/20

    Are you looking for a trusted place to support your NP exam prep and connect with other learners? In this episode, we sit down with Courtney, Senior Editor of Nurse Practitioner Content at SMNP Reviews and Blueprint Test Prep, to introduce our new Instagram page, @smnpreviewsofficial.

    This will be your go-to hub for study tips, updates, and inspiration as you navigate your NP journey, all while continuing the legacy of Sarah Michelle’s vision for real-deal NP support. Whether you’re a student, in clinicals, or a new NP, this episode will help you discover how to leverage SMNP Reviews’ resources and social channels to stay organized, supported, and confident throughout your NP journey.

    Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://blog.npreviews.com/np-board-prep-hub-resources-instagram-courtney/

    Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/smnpreviewsofficial

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    15 分
  • 145: How to Navigate Multiple NP Specialties with Kennedy
    2025/08/06

    Are you struggling to find the right specialty as a new nurse practitioner? You’re not alone. In today’s episode, I sit down with my friend Kennedy to discuss her journey through multiple NP specialties – from endocrinology to telehealth and now transplant nephrology and aesthetics.

    Kennedy offers valuable insights about transitioning between specialties and managing the isolation of telehealth work. We also discuss specific strategies for succeeding in specialty roles and finding good work-life balance. Tune in to hear how Kennedy’s experiences can guide you through the process of exploring different NP specialties and making informed decisions about your career path.

    Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://blog.npreviews.com/multiple-np-specialties-kennedy/

    Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/smnpreviewsofficial

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    22 分
  • 144: Secondary Hypertension Demystified for Nurse Practitioners
    2025/07/23

    As nurse practitioners, we often see a condition that flies under the radar but has important implications for diagnosis and treatment: secondary hypertension. While high blood pressure is common, readings that don’t fit the typical profile should make us pause.

    In today’s episode, I’ll walk you through the red flags that signal secondary hypertension and use real clinical scenarios to address practical workup strategies. Tune in to discover when to suspect secondary hypertension, and learn how early recognition and timely diagnosis of underlying causes can lead to better patient outcomes and more effective hypertension management.

    Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://blog.npreviews.com/secondary-hypertension-demystified-nurse-practitioners/

    Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/smnpreviewsofficial

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    10 分
  • 143: Reduce Medication Risks in Older Adults with the Beers Criteria
    2025/07/09

    With polypharmacy on the rise, prescribing for older adults can be tricky, leading to increased risks of side effects and drug interactions. In today's episode, we'll explore how you can reduce medication risks in older adults with the Beers Criteria, a tool that helps you safely navigate these challenges and enhance your clinical practice for patients over 65.

    In this episode, you’ll learn which medications, from antidepressants to NSAIDs, should raise red flags and how the Beers Criteria can guide your decisions. We’ll also talk about practical steps for de-prescribing and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure your patients get the safest, most effective treatments.

    Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://blog.npreviews.com/reduce-medication-risks-older-adults-beers-criteria

    Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/smnpreviewsofficial

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    12 分
  • 142: Prevent Diagnostic Errors in NP Practice: Essential Strategies
    2025/06/25

    In today's episode, I dive into a critical topic that NP school doesn't fully prepare you for - diagnostic errors in clinical practice. Unlike exams where wrong answers only affect your grade, real-world diagnostic mistakes can impact patient outcomes.

    Together with my returning guest Courtney, we explore the different types of diagnostic errors and practical strategies to prevent them. Whether it's maintaining an open mind or advocating for your patient, we provide actionable steps for both new and experienced NPs.

    Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://blog.npreviews.com/prevent-diagnostic-errors-np-practice-essential-strategies/

    Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/smnpreviewsofficial

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    10 分