We know you can pass the exam, and we’re looking forward to hearing your “after stories” of success. But as you count down to exam time, we wanted to share a few tips we’ve found helpful.
- Have your IDs ready. The IBLCE’s Candidate Information Guide provides details about the TWO forms of identification you need, as well as any supporting documents that may be called for.
- Know where to go — and how. Most IBLCE exam candidates in the US and Canada will use computer-based testing at the testing center. Make sure you know where you’re going and how to get there. Plan to be 15 to 20 minutes early, accounting in traffic the day of the exam. If you are late, you may not be able to take the exam. If you’re early, you can use the time to go over your notes.
- Have a “Plan B” ready. Ask a friend if he or she will be able to give you a lift to the exam site if your car won’t start or you encounter some other transportation problem on exam day. If you have an emergency on the day of the exam, you will not be able to take the 2013 exam and IBLCE will not refund your fees.
- Be aware of the time. Most IBLCE exam takers are allotted one 4-hour session to complete the exam. (See IBLCE’s time FAQ for details.)
- Plan what you eat or drink accordingly. Although you may feel nervous before the exam, try to eat something. You don’t want to be distracted by hunger. (Note that you are allowed to bring a snack and water bottle with you; it’s a good idea to do so even if you’re not hungry, “just in case.”) But avoid drinking too many cups or caffeinated coffee or soft drinks. The IBLCE exam is a timed exam, and you’ll waste precious time visiting the bathroom.
- Most importantly … Get a good night’s sleep the night before, knowing you’re well-prepared for the challenge ahead.
Odds are good you’ve been studying … and studying … and studying! By now, you know the material about as well as you will on exam day.
Good luck!
Breastfeeding Outlook
Denise click the link in the original arclite to the US Breastfeeding Committee’s (truly excellent) Toolkit on The Joint Commission’s Perinatal Care core measure on exclusive breastfeeding. In the resources section of the Toolkit (p. 35), you can click through to the California Dept. of Public Health, which has some jaw-droppingly-good evidence-based materials on all manner of hospital-related policies and protocols for breastfeeding. Take a look at their Sample patient handouts explaining why babies should be exclusively breastfed. Liz Brooks