Chill and Conquer: Practical Strategies for Managing Test Anxiety

Test anxiety is a common experience for certification candidates, but it does not have to define exam day. In the 2026 AMSN Convention session “Chill and Conquer: How to Crush Test Anxiety,” presenters Alyssa Denning, BSN, RN, CMSRN; Kelly Hunt, MN, RN, CNL, NPD-BC; and Caroline Ashman, MSN, RN, CMSRN, with moderator MSNCB President Courtney Lykins, MSN, RN, CMSRN, NPD-BC, shared practical strategies for recognizing anxiety, preparing with intention, and approaching the certification exams with greater confidence. Specifically, this session addressed navigating test anxiety for the CMSRN^® and CAVRN^® certification exams.

The presenters brought different perspectives to the conversation, including that of a recent CMSRN certificant, a CMSRN applicant with extensive certification exam experience, and a CMSRN who has been certified for 19 years. Together, they emphasized a reassuring message for candidates: Test anxiety is not a weakness, nor is it proof of poor preparation. It is a real challenge, but one that can be managed with awareness, planning, and the right tools.

Understanding Test Anxiety

One of the first steps in managing test anxiety is understanding how it shows up. The presenters noted that anxiety can affect concentration, recall, and overall performance. Physical symptoms may also appear, and candidates may recognize moments when nervousness begins to interfere with their ability to think clearly.

At the same time, the session challenged common misconceptions. Anxiety does not necessarily mean a candidate is unprepared. It also does not mean they are incapable of success. In fact, the presenters noted that some anxiety can be helpful when it motivates preparation and focus.

Common Challenges Candidates Face

The discussion highlighted several challenges that often contribute to test anxiety:

• Fear of failing
• Difficulty concentrating
• Finding time to study while balancing work and life responsibilities
• Maintaining confidence on test day

For medical-surgical nurses preparing for certification, these challenges can feel especially intense because their knowledge base is broad and their professional responsibilities are demanding. The presenters encouraged candidates to be honest about what is realistic when planning study time and to choose strategies they can follow through on.

Strategies That Work

The presenters shared some key, actionable strategies and advice for approaching exam preparation, including:

• Setting aside structured, dedicated study time.
• Being realistic about what fits your work and life schedule.
• Using practice questions to build familiarity with the exam format.
• Intentionally focusing on content areas that feel uncomfortable.
• Follow through on the strategies you choose for yourself.

A key message from Kelly Hunt was that candidates often know more than they think they know. “If you have the experience to be qualified to be certified, you probably know what you need to know,” she shared. Alyssa Denning echoed that sense of confidence by reflecting on her own exam experience. Walking into the exam, she reminded herself that she had years of nursing experience across specialties, which helped her trust her knowledge and move forward.

Test Day Tips

Preparation also extends to test day itself. The presenters recommended taking care of practical needs before the exam begins, including having the required identification and materials ready, arriving early for in-person testing, completing system checks for virtual testing, and making sure you are rested, fed, and hydrated. Keep these tips in mind when going into your exam:

• Read each question carefully and calmly.
• Think about the answer before reviewing the response options.
• Look for keywords such as “most,” “first,” “initially,” or “usual problem.”
• Watch for language related to the nursing process, such as assessment, analysis, and planning.
• Pay attention to time-related clues, such as pre-op vs. post-op.
• Answer every question, since a skipped question is incorrect.
• Trust your preparation and, when appropriate, go with your gut.

Because the CMSRN exam is a long test with 150 questions, the presenters also suggested practicing stamina. Sitting down at least once to answer 150 practice questions can help candidates become more comfortable with the length and mental endurance required.

Resources and Final Reflections

The session closed by pointing candidates toward available support, including AMSN CMSRN and CAVRN Certification Review Courses, practice exam questions, FailSafe organizational support, and CertAssure™ for individual testers. These resources can help candidates feel less alone and more prepared as they seek certification.

Ultimately, the presenters reminded candidates that certification is not only a test of what they have studied, but also a reflection of the knowledge and experience they already bring to their practice. With preparation, realistic strategies, and confidence in their nursing expertise, candidates can approach the exam with a calmer mindset and a stronger sense of readiness.

Now, take that newfound confidence and start your certification journey!