November 25, 2025 • 34 mins
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Discover the real path to medical career success. Learn what it takes to pass certification, build confidence, and create the healthcare career you deserve.
Starting your medical career can feel overwhelming—between studying for certification, managing clinical hours, and wondering if you're on the right path. But here's the truth: you don't have to figure it all out alone.
In this episode of MAP: Medical Pathways for Success, Fred Nazario breaks down the essential steps every aspiring healthcare professional needs to know. Whether you're a medical assistant, phlebotomist, pharmacy tech, or nursing assistant, this episode gives you the clarity and direction to move forward with confidence.
What You'll Learn:
- The biggest mistakes students make when preparing for certification (and how to avoid them)
- Practical strategies to build real-world skills that employers actually want
- How to stay motivated when the journey gets tough
- Why your "why" matters more than you think
Resources Mentioned:
- MAStudySource [https://www.instagram.com/mastudysource]
This isn't just about passing a test—it's about building a career that changes lives, starting with your own. Your pathway to success starts here.
💙 Love this episode? Follow. and share MAP with someone chasing their healthcare dreams! | 📧 Questions, ideas, or story to share? mappodcast@outlook.com | 📱 Follow @MAPpodcastofficial on Instagram & Facebook | MAP: Medical Pathways for Success — Your roadmap to a thriving medical career.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:08):
Welcome back to Map MedicalPathways for Success, the
podcast that helps you learn,grow, and thrive on your journey
toward a healthcare career.
I'm your host, Fred NazarioAlvarado, and today I wanted
to make sure we have somethingthat every student, graduate,
or working professionalcan use no matter where
you are on your journey.
(00:28):
So today we're talking aboutone of the biggest moments
in every medical career examday and how to prepare for it
with clarity and confidence,whether you're just about
to take your certificationexam, just starting your
program, or already workingin the field and thinking
about your next credential.
This episode is yourroadmap to success.
(00:55):
Your certification examis more than just a test.
It's a milestone.
It's your opportunity toprove that the effort, the
study hours, and the hands-ontraining have paid off No
matter what certificationtest you're going for, whether
it be medical assisting,phlebotomy, billing and coding,
or even nursing, your examis the biggest bridge between
(01:17):
preparation and practice.
It's recognized by employersrespected across the country,
and most importantly, itshows that you're ready.
When you pass, you're notjust earning a credential,
you're opening the door toyour future in healthcare.
Now, let's talkabout the basics.
(01:37):
Every exam has its ownsetup, number of questions,
timing and topic areas.
But the goal is always the same.
To measure your readiness forreal world patient care, you'll
typically see multiple choicequestions designed around
real scenarios, things you'llactually face in your job.
So this isn't just bookknowledge, it's about how
(01:58):
you think, act, and makedecisions in a clinical
environment, whether you'retesting online or in person.
The key is pacingyourself, staying calm and
trusting what you know.
But what about what'sactually on your exam?
The heart of what you've beenlearning and preparing for
every exam is different, butthey all have one common goal
(02:21):
to make sure you're ready tostep into a healthcare setting.
Care for real peoplewith real needs.
When you look at it thatway, every question on
your test isn't justabout memorizing facts.
It's about proving thatyou can think, act, and
respond like a professional.
You're showing that youunderstand not just what
you do, but why it matters.
(02:43):
So let's walk throughthe main areas that most
certification exams cover.
And I'll give you a sense ofwhat each one really represents.
Number one, foundationalknowledge and basic science.
This one is the core.
Your building blocks,anatomy, physiology, medical
terminology, infectioncontrol, safety protocols.
(03:05):
It's the science and structurethat everything else stands on.
When you understand how the bodyworks and how disease or injury
disrupts it, you're not justanswering test questions, you're
learning how to protect lives.
So if this section feels heavy,remember this is the part that
lets you speak the languageof healthcare, and that's
something to be proud of.
(03:26):
Number two, clinicalprocedures and patient care.
Now we move into the hands onpart, the skills that make you
a true medical professional.
Taking vitals, assistingproviders during exams,
performing lab tests, supportingpatients during procedures.
This is where theclassroom meets the clinic.
Every skill you'vepracticed, every checklist
(03:48):
you've completed, itall comes together here.
And when you're sitting inthat exam room, every scenario
question is really asking,can you handle this situation
calmly, safely, and withconfidence you can because
you've done it already.
Number three, administrativeand office skills.
(04:09):
The behind the scenesheroes, organization,
scheduling, documentation,and communication.
It might not always feelexciting, but this section
is the heartbeat of everyhealthcare office, accurate
records, clear charts,and proper building.
Those things keep patient carerunning smoothly, and protect
both patients and providers.
(04:31):
So when you study topicslike EHR systems or insurance
forms, remember this isn't justpaperwork, it's patient safety
and professionalism in action.
Number four, patientcommunication and education.
This one is my favoritebecause no matter what role
you have in healthcare, you'realways be working with people.
(04:53):
People who are scared in painor simply looking for answers.
This section isabout connecting.
It's about explaining thingsclearly, showing empathy, and
knowing how to adjust yourcommunication for every patient.
If you can make someonefeel seen and understood.
You're already practicinggood medicine no matter
what your title says.
(05:14):
So take this section to heart.
It's not just aboutpassing a test.
It's about building trust, thefoundation of all patient care.
Number five,coordination of care.
Healthcare is a team effort, andthis part of your exam checks
that you understand how allthe moving parts fit together,
how information flows betweendepartments, how referrals
(05:35):
work, how to follow up aftera test or an appointment.
When you coordinate careeffectively, you make sure no
one falls through the cracks.
It's a reminder that eventhough you may only handle
one part of the process, whatyou do affects everything
else and everyone else.
That's real responsibility.
(05:56):
That's real impact.
And finally, professionalism,ethics and compliance.
This section ties it alltogether because it's not
just about what you do.
It's about how you do it.
You'll see questions aboutpatient confidentiality, HIPAA
ethics, and workplace behavior,but deeper than that, it's about
(06:18):
integrity doing the right thing,even when no one's watching.
When you carry yourselfwith professionalism, you
don't just represent youremployer or your credential.
You represent the trust thatpatients place in healthcare
workers every single day.
So as you study,keep this in mind.
You're not preparingfor an exam.
If you're preparing to stepinto a career that saves
(06:40):
lives, supports families, andstrengthens communities, every
flashcard, every quiz, everylate night study session, it
all leads to that moment whensomeone looks at you and says,
thank you for helping me.
That's what you're workingtoward, and that's what
this exam is really about.
And if you prepare for anexam that doesn't cover
(07:01):
these exact areas, here'swhat I want you to do.
Take a few minutes to go online.
And search for yourspecific exam on Google.
Type in the name of yourexam and right after it,
type the word blueprint.
For example, if you're studyingfor the CPC exam, type in CPC
exam blueprint, then scrollpast the sponsored links and
(07:23):
check out the official ortrusted educational websites.
That's where you'll findthe detailed breakdown of
your exam, what's covered,what to focus on, and how to
structure your study time.
Because remember, the goalisn't just to study harder,
it's to study smarter.
When you understand theblueprint, you're already
halfway to success.
(07:44):
Now that you've gotten aclear picture of what's on
the exam, it's time to shiftgears because knowing what
to study is one thing, butknowing how to study, that's
where the real power lies.
Anyone can review flashcardsor reread notes, but top
performers, they use strategy.
They study with purpose.
(08:05):
So in this next part, we'regoing to walk through proven
ways to stay focused, studysmarter, and build the kind of
confidence that lasts all theway to test day and beyond.
Get ready.
This is your map exam,prep, special segment, study
strategies and preparation tips.
(08:25):
Get set.
Let's go.
Time to ignite, learn,grow, and shine your light.
Focus up the future and stretch.
It's time for a special segment,and this one's all about helping
you feel confident and fullyprepared for your upcoming exam.
(08:48):
Whether your test state is rightaround the corner or still a
few weeks away, this part ispacked with real practical
strategies you can start using.
Today.
We're diving into what actuallyworks, what doesn't, and how
to study smarter, not harder.
So you can walk into thattest room, calm, focused,
and ready to show exactlywhat you've learned.
And here's somethingto keep in mind.
(09:10):
Most certification exams don'tjust test what you remember.
They test how well you can applywhat you've learned into real
world healthcare situations.
That's why the most effectivestudy plan isn't about
memorizing every detail.
It's about building trueunderstanding, sharpening your
strategy, and learning howto think like a professional.
So let's get into it.
These are your study strategiesand preparation tips to help you
(09:31):
perform your best on exam day.
Step one, create a clear studyroadmap no matter which medical
exam you're preparing for.
Having a plan is whatseparates the overwhelmed
from the prepared.
If your test date's comingup, give yourself at least
four to six weeks to builda focus study schedule.
Start by breaking thematerial into major sections
(09:53):
as we discussed earlier.
Things like clinical knowledge,administrative procedures,
patient care, communication,safety and compliance.
Focus on one area at a timeso you can really understand
it before moving on.
Then in that final weekshift your focus to
review and practice test.
That last stretch isn'tabout cramming, it's
(10:14):
about building confidence.
Reinforcing what youknow and getting into
your test day rhythm.
And here's approach it.
Treat your study time,like a work shift when
it's time to study.
Clock in mentally, nodistractions, no halfway
there, effort, just you,your notes and your goal.
Because every hour you putin now is an investment
one that brings you closerto walking into that exam.
(10:37):
Calm, confident, and readyto show what you know.
Now that your roadmap isin place, let's talk about
how to make those studysessions really work.
Because success isn't justabout studying hard, it's
about studying smart Step twostudy tools, because having
the right resources can makeall the difference when it
comes to your exam success.
(10:58):
Start with the official studyguides and practice tests from
your certifying organization.
They're designed to mirrorthe real exam format.
Timing and question style.
She'll know exactly whatto expect on test day.
Now, official study guidesand practice tests can be
amazing tools when you'regetting ready for your exam.
But let's be honest, they're notalways within everyone's budget.
(11:22):
And if that's the case,don't stress, you can still
crush your exam without them.
What matters most is that youkeep studying and take advantage
of any free or affordablepractice exams you can find.
Remember.
These tests aren'tdesigned to see if you can
memorize their questions.
They're meant to measure howwell you understand what you've
learned and how you applyit in real life situations.
(11:43):
A study guide won'tmake you understand your
effort, your consistency,and your focus will.
That's what builds confidence.
That's what gets youacross the finish line.
Next, use flashcards.
Digital ones like Quizlet orold school index cards if you'd
like to write things down.
They're perfect for quickreview sessions when you've
(12:03):
only got a few minutes to spare.
But don't just read yournotes, engage with them.
Try explaining a conceptout loud as if you're
teaching it to a patient ora classmate, because when you
can teach it clearly, that'swhen you truly understand.
Here's another powerful tip.
Mix it up.
Alternate between reading,watching, review videos,
(12:24):
doing practice questions,and taking short quizzes.
Your brain learns best whenyou change how you study.
It keeps things fresh andhelps the information stick.
And don't forget abouttiming, study and focus burst.
Go hard for about 45to 50 minutes, then
take a 10 minute break.
It keeps your mind sharp andhelps prevent burnout because
(12:45):
remember, this isn't aboutcramming the night before.
It's about consistency.
A little focused effort everyday builds the confidence you
need to walk into that exam.
Feeling ready.
Now that you've got your planin place and your tools lined
up, it's time to talk abouthow to use them effectively
because not all studymethods are created equal.
(13:06):
Some help the informationstick while others just
make you feel productive.
If you really want tostudy smarter, this next
strategy is the game changer.
Let's talk about whyActive Recall always
beats passive review.
Let's talk about one ofthe biggest game changers
when it comes to studying.
Active recall, a lot of peoplemake the mistake of just reading
their notes or highlightinginformation over and over.
(13:29):
That's what we calla passive review.
And while it feelsproductive, it doesn't
really help your brainretain information Long term.
Active recall, on the otherhand, means pulling the
information outta your memory,not just looking at it.
That can mean quizzingyourself with flashcards,
covering up your notes andexplaining the concept out loud.
Taking short practice tests.
(13:51):
When you challenge your brainto retrieve information, you're
actually strengthening thosememory connections, kind of
like exercising a muscle.
The more you do it,the stronger it gets.
Here's an easy way to start.
After you finish studying asection, close your book and
try to teach it back eitherto a classmate, a friend, or
even just to yourself out loud.
(14:11):
If you stumbled through theexplanation, that's your signal
to go back and review that area.
So remember, don't justread it, recall it.
That's how you turnknowledge into confidence.
When test day comes, once you'vegot active recall working for
you and you're starting tolock in that knowledge, it's
time to take things up a notch.
Because knowing the materialis one thing, but being able to
(14:33):
perform under pressure is whatreally prepares you for testing.
That's where realisticpractice comes in.
So let's talk abouthow to practice under
the real conditions.
And make your study sessionsfeel just like the real exam.
Most certification exams followa pretty similar setup around
a couple hundred questionsand a few hours to finish.
That usually gives you about aminute per question, which means
(14:56):
time management matters just asmuch as knowing the material.
So before test day, make sureto take at least two full length
timed practice exams and don'tjust go through the motions.
Treat them like rehearsals Foryour big performance, think
of studying for your exam.
Like preparing for a live show,you wouldn't just read the
sheet music, you'd rehearse,you'd practice like you're
(15:19):
on stage under the lights.
With the full band behind you,it's the same with test prep.
Don't just flip through yournotes, simulate the real thing,
set a timer, find a quietplace, and take your practice
test as if it's exam day.
That's how you build rhythm,confidence, and flow.
So when the real day comes,you're not scrambling
(15:41):
or second guessing.
You're performing withpurpose, calm, and control.
And when you're done, don'tjust look at your score.
Study the story behind it.
What questions slowed you down?
Which topics trippedyou up more than once?
Are you rushing throughcertain sections?
That's where thereal growth happens.
When you find those patterns,you find your opportunities.
(16:03):
Every mistake becomes a lesson,and every lesson gets you
one step closer to masteringthe material and walking into
that exam with confidence.
Now that you practice underreal conditions and started
identifying those weakspots, the next step is key.
'cause here's the truth.
Your weaknessdoesn't define you.
How you work through them does.
(16:24):
This is where growthreally happens.
When you take whatchallenge you most.
And turn it into yourgreatest advantage.
So let's dig into it,how to strengthen your
weak areas and use themto power your successes.
When you're preparing for yourmedical exam, it's easy to
stick with what feels familiarto keep reviewing the sections
you already understand.
(16:45):
Here's the thing, real progresshappens when you lean into
areas that challenge you.
So here's your strategy.
After every practice test, taketime to review the questions
you missed and write them down.
Don't just glance at the correctanswer, dig into why it's
right, and just as important,why the others weren't.
(17:05):
That's how you turnconfusion into clarity.
If you start to notice apattern, maybe you're missing
pharmacology terms, clinicalprocedures, or maybe it's
administrative concepts.
Dedicate an entire studyblock to that topic.
Watch a short video, readthat section of your notes,
or make a few flashcardsfocus just on that one area.
(17:27):
Keep it simple, keep itconsistent, and that each
small breakthrough buildon the last, because growth
doesn't happen overnight.
It happens.
One question, one correction,and one aha moment at a time.
Every weakness you face, headon becomes one less thing
to worry about on test day.
(17:47):
So don't avoid thehard stuff, master it.
That's where your realconfidence comes from.
Let me give you anexample of what I mean
to master the hard stuff.
Back when I was in theNavy working in anesthesia,
I'll be honest, I wasterrible at starting IVs.
For those who might not know,an IV is what you place in
(18:08):
your arm, so we can giveyou fluids or medications.
As an anesthesia tech, that'ssomething you do all day.
I struggled with it andinstead of facing it head
on, I started to avoid it.
But one day my HM two.
Hospital corpsman second classfor my non Navy folk out there.
Notice what I was doing.
He pulled me aside and hesaid, you're either going to
(18:31):
learn how to do IVs or you'regoing to another department.
Then right in front of me,he picked up a IV needle,
stuck it in his own armand said, see, it's not
that hard and walked away.
You have no idea howvivid a memory that is.
Shout out to HM twoHankins out there.
(18:52):
That moment changedeverything for me.
I realized I needed to stoprunning from what was difficult
and instead master it.
From that day forward.
I volunteered for everytough stick I could find.
Slowly but surely I got better.
Before long, I became the personeveryone called when they had
an iv no one could get, andthis was before the ultrasound
(19:15):
machines they use now.
It was all skill,patience, and practice.
I'll never forget theday they asked me to
start an IV on a newborn.
That was an experienceI'll never forget.
But here's the point.
Avoiding the hard thingsonly holds you back.
Facing them, mastering them,that's what makes you grow.
That's what builds confidence.
(19:37):
And before you knowit, the thing that one
scared you becomes athing you're known for.
Before we move on, I wannatake a moment to remind
you of something important.
And this comes straightfrom our friends over at MA
Study Source on Instagram.
Everyone studies differently.
Everyone learnsat their own pace.
So if you ever find yourselfcomparing your progress to
(19:57):
someone else's, stop and takea breath, you might need more
time with one subject whilesomeone else grasps it quickly,
and that's completely okay.
It doesn't mean you're behind.
It means you're learning in theway that works best for you.
The goal isn't to race throughthe material, it's to understand
(20:17):
it because in healthcare,true understanding is what
makes you confident, capable,and ready to care for others.
So thank you at MA StudySource for that reminder.
And if you're lookingfor great study resources
and encouragement.
Make sure to check outtheir page and thank
you for the support.
Speaking of support, one ofthe best ways to stay motivated
(20:38):
and keep that understandinggrowing is through teamwork.
Let's talk about howjoining a study group or
a peer review session canmake all the difference.
Studying doesn't haveto be a solo mission.
Joining a study group, evena small one, can make a
huge difference in how wellyou retain information.
When you teach a topicto someone else, you're
(20:59):
not just helping them.
You're reinforcing your ownknowledge in a powerful way.
Explaining medical procedures,breaking down anatomy terms or
walking through patient caresteps out loud helps lock that
information in long-term memory.
And if you're someonewho struggles to stay
consistent, study partnershelp keep you accountable.
Whether you're meeting inperson on Zoom, or even just
(21:20):
sharing quiz questions througha group chat, the teamwork
keeps your motivation high.
Try scheduling one groupsession a week where everyone
brings one mini lesson or quiz.
You'll be surprised how muchyou learn from each other and
how much more confident you'llfeel when you realize, Hey, I
actually know this stuff Becauseremember, success in healthcare
(21:42):
has always been about teamwork.
And that starts righthere before you ever
step into the exam room.
So you've been putting in thetime, reviewing, practicing,
and maybe even teachingothers, and that's incredible.
But here's something alot of people forget.
While chasing success, yourbrain needs rest just as much
as it needs repetition, becauseno matter how hard you study,
(22:04):
if you're running on empty, yourfocus and memory starts to fade.
So before you dive into thatnext late night cram session.
Let's talk about somethingjust as important as
studying your wellness.
You can study for hours,run through practice,
test, and know everymedical term front to back.
But if you're exhausted,it's like trying to
(22:25):
drive with an empty tank.
Your brain is in a machine.
It needs downtime torecharge, reset, and actually
store what you've learned.
Sleep, nutrition, hydration.
They're not extras.
They're part of your study plan.
So here's your reminder.
Make rest a non-negotiableAim for at least seven
hours of sleep a nightleading up to your exam.
(22:48):
Take short breaks during yourstudy sessions Every hour.
Step away for five minutes,stretch or grab some water.
Those tiny breaks keep yourmind sharp and your stress low.
And don't forget to breathea few deep breaths before
you start studying or beforeyour exam can calm your
nerves and get you centered.
(23:08):
Remember.
A clear rested mind performsbetter than a tired one.
You work so hard to get here.
Trust your preparation, takecare of yourself, and walk into
that exam focused, confident,and ready to crush it.
You've built your knowledge,strengthen your study
habits, practiced underreal conditions and taken
(23:28):
care of your mind and body.
That's a solid foundation.
You've done the work and you'regetting closer every day to
crossing that finish line.
But before we wrap up.
Let's talk about something justas important, what not to do,
because sometimes avoiding afew simple mistakes can make you
just as much of a difference asall the studying in the world.
(23:50):
So let's flip the script andlook at some of the most common
pitfalls students run intobefore and during their medical
exams and more important.
How you can steer clear of themand walk into test day, calm,
confident, and fully prepared.
(24:12):
Alright, let's get into it.
These are some of the biggestmistakes I've seen students
make before test day andthe good news, every single
one of them can be avoided.
Mistake number one, crammingthe night before I get it.
It's tempting to squeeze inone last review session at
midnight, but here's the thing.
(24:32):
Cramming usually doesmore harm than good.
When you overload your brainright before the exam, you
increase stress and reducerecall instead, do a light
review earlier in the evening,pack your ID and essentials,
and get a solid night's sleep.
A clear rested mind.
Perform so much betterthan a tired one.
(24:53):
Mistake number two,ignoring the nonclinical
or administrative topics.
This one catches a lotof students off guard.
Most people pour all theirenergy into the hands-on
clinical material and skipright over the section
that deals with things likedocumentation, scheduling,
building, or communication.
Those areas really matter.
(25:14):
They're a big part of theexam and an even bigger part
of a real world healthcare.
So don't overlook them.
Take the time to review thoseadministrative concepts and
give that section the attentionit deserves, because sometimes
those extra points come fromtopics you almost skipped.
Mistake number three, skimmingquestions too quickly.
(25:34):
Here's a big one.
Rushing through your questions.
Think of your examlike a strategy game.
You wouldn't just makea move without scanning
the field, right?
You'd pause, ready toplay and make the next
move with confidence.
It's the same here.
Slow down, read carefully,and watch out for key
words like first, best,or most appropriate.
(25:56):
Those can completelychange the question.
Take your time, eliminatewrong answers, and
trust your instincts.
That's how you stay calm,focused, and in control.
Mistake number four, forgettinginfection control basics.
Never underestimate thepower of basics, infection
control, hand hygiene, PPE,sterilization, proper disposal.
(26:21):
These are straightforwardquestions that can
easily earn you points.
Review your standardprecautions because the test
absolutely checks for them.
The simple stuff can make abig difference in your score.
Mistake number five,poor time management.
You'll have about one minuteper question if you get stuck.
Don't panic, flag it.
(26:43):
Move on and circle back later.
You'll build momentumby knocking out the
questions you do know.
First, the rhythm keeps yourconfidence up and helps you
manage your time like a pro.
And here's a pretty coolthing to know about MO
certification exams.
If you flag any questions forreview, the system will just let
you hit submit and walk away.
It'll actually stop you for amoment and remind you that you
(27:04):
still have flagged questionsto look at before you finish.
It is like abuilt-in safety net.
One last chance to doublecheck your work and make
sure you've given it yourbest before locking in.
And finally, mistake numbersix, doubting yourself.
Don't doubt yourself.
This is a huge one.
(27:26):
Trust your first answer.
I can't say it enough.
Most of the time, your firstinstinct is your best one.
You've studied, you'vepracticed, and you
trained for this.
So when you read that question,trust the work you put in.
Go with your gut.
Stay confident and don'toverthink it because your
first answer comes from theknowledge you've built, not
(27:48):
the doubt that creeps in after.
Remember, avoiding thesesmall mistakes can make a
huge impact on your results.
You've learned thestrategies, built strong
habits, and now you know whatmistakes to steer clear of.
At this point, you'vedone everything you can
to prepare, so let's talkabout what happens next.
Because test day isn'tjust another study session.
(28:09):
It's your moment to show whatall the effort has built toward.
Here's what you can expect whenthe big day finally arrives
on exam day.
Give yourself plenty of time.
Arrive early soyou're not rushing.
Bring your valid ID any requiredpaperwork and leave your phone
and personal items behind.
Some locations won't allowthem in the testing area.
(28:32):
Once you check in, you'll geta short orientation that walks
you through the testing process.
Use the time to breathe,get comfortable and settle
in when the exam starts.
Take a deep breath andtrust your preparation.
You've studied, you'vepracticed, and you
know this material.
Pace yourself.
You've got about oneminute per question, so
(28:52):
stay ahead and focused.
If you hit a tough question,don't let it throw you off.
Flag it, move on,and come back later.
Remember, you'veworked hard for this.
This is your time to shine.
Stay calm, stay confident,and show what you know.
You've got this.
So you've made it throughtesting, the studying, the
(29:14):
nerves, the long hours.
It's all behind you now,but what happens next?
That moment when you walk outtathe testing room can bring a
mix of emotions, excitement,relief, maybe even a little
uncertainty, especially whenthose results pop up just
minutes later for some exams.
But here's the truth.
(29:34):
That single momentdoesn't define you.
What does define you isthe effort, the dedication,
and the courage it took toget there if you passed.
Congratulations.
Seriously, take that in.
You've earned this.
That certification isn'tjust a piece of paper.
It's proof that your hardwork, long nights and
(29:55):
determination paid off.
Now's the time to celebrate.
Update your resume.
Start reaching out to clinics,hospitals, or offices, and
take the next big step towardyour career in healthcare.
And if things didn'tgo exactly as planned,
don't let it stop you.
Some of the best medicalprofessionals out there, they
didn't pass their first exam,but they learned regrouped.
(30:17):
Came back stronger.
Look over yourperformance report.
Focus on the areasthat need improvement
and build a new plan.
You've already done thehardest part showing up.
Remember, this isn'tjust about one test.
It's about growth,resilience, and believing
your own potential.
You've proven thatyou're capable.
(30:39):
Now, keep that momentum goingbecause this is only the
beginning of your journey.
Alright, we've talkedstrategies, study tips,
and everything you needto prep for your exam.
But now it's timeto shift gears.
Time for your map moment.
Where we turn what we'velearned into action,
(31:05):
it's time for stay focused.
Here's your mapmoment for this week.
(31:25):
A quick confidence check-in.
On a scale from one to 10,how confident do you feel
about your next big step?
It might be your exam, a newskill, or even just balancing
everything on your plate.
Take a second to behonest with yourself.
What's your number now?
Think of one small action youcan take this week to move that
number up by just one point.
(31:48):
Maybe it's reviewing one trickytopic every morning before work.
Maybe it's asking aclassmate for help.
Maybe it's simply remindingyourself that you've come
further than you realized.
Confidence isn't aboutnever feeling nervous.
It's about showing up anywayand proving to yourself
that you can handle it.
So that's your map moment.
Your challenge is to takeone action that boosts
(32:10):
your confidence this week.
And hey, if you'd like to sharewhat you're doing to boost
your confidence this week,I'd love to hear from you.
Send your map moment tomap podcast@outlook.com.
Who knows, we might shareyour story in an upcoming
episode to inspire otherson their journey too.
Remember, small progress isstill progress, and every step
(32:31):
counts towards your success.
You know, any big certificationexam can feel a little
intimidating at first, andthat's completely normal.
But here's the truth.
This test isn'tmeant to trick you.
It's designed to help youprove what you already know.
Everything you needis already in you.
Your training, your effortand your commitment have
(32:54):
brought you this far and theyprepared you for this moment.
If you stay consistent,stay focused, and keep
the right mindset, youwill get through it.
And when you do, you'll stepforward with confidence.
Ready to begin the nextchapter of your medical career.
This was a deep episodepacked with a lot of valuable
information, but all of itis designed to guide you.
(33:18):
To help you stay on course andkeep moving forward on your
map, your pathway to success.
And here's something to keep inmind as you head into the week.
Preparation is a lotlike following a map.
Every session, every practicetest, every late night note,
it's another turn bringing youcloser to your own destination.
So keep moving forward,keep refining your path,
(33:41):
and when exam date comes,you'll be ready to show the
world what you're made of.
If you enjoyed today's episode,make sure to follow the show
and share it with anyonechasing their healthcare dreams.
I'd love to hear from you.
If there's a topic you wantme to cover, a story you'd
like me to share, or somethingthat helped you along the
way on your own medicaljourney, send me an email
(34:03):
at Map podcast@outlook.com.
Your ideas and experiencecould expire someone
else on their path.
Until next time, keeplearning, keep growing, and
keep following your map, yourmedical pathway for success.
Welcome back to Map MedicalPathways for Success, the
podcast that helps you learn,grow, and thrive on your journey
toward a healthcare career.
I'm your host, Fred NazarioAlvarado, and today I wanted
to make sure we have somethingthat every student, graduate,
or working professionalcan use no matter where
you are on your journey.
(00:28):
So today we're talking aboutone of the biggest moments
in every medical career examday and how to prepare for it
with clarity and confidence,whether you're just about
to take your certificationexam, just starting your
program, or already workingin the field and thinking
about your next credential.
This episode is yourroadmap to success.
(00:55):
Your certification examis more than just a test.
It's a milestone.
It's your opportunity toprove that the effort, the
study hours, and the hands-ontraining have paid off No
matter what certificationtest you're going for, whether
it be medical assisting,phlebotomy, billing and coding,
or even nursing, your examis the biggest bridge between
(01:17):
preparation and practice.
It's recognized by employersrespected across the country,
and most importantly, itshows that you're ready.
When you pass, you're notjust earning a credential,
you're opening the door toyour future in healthcare.
Now, let's talkabout the basics.
(01:37):
Every exam has its ownsetup, number of questions,
timing and topic areas.
But the goal is always the same.
To measure your readiness forreal world patient care, you'll
typically see multiple choicequestions designed around
real scenarios, things you'llactually face in your job.
So this isn't just bookknowledge, it's about how
(01:58):
you think, act, and makedecisions in a clinical
environment, whether you'retesting online or in person.
The key is pacingyourself, staying calm and
trusting what you know.
But what about what'sactually on your exam?
The heart of what you've beenlearning and preparing for
every exam is different, butthey all have one common goal
(02:21):
to make sure you're ready tostep into a healthcare setting.
Care for real peoplewith real needs.
When you look at it thatway, every question on
your test isn't justabout memorizing facts.
It's about proving thatyou can think, act, and
respond like a professional.
You're showing that youunderstand not just what
you do, but why it matters.
(02:43):
So let's walk throughthe main areas that most
certification exams cover.
And I'll give you a sense ofwhat each one really represents.
Number one, foundationalknowledge and basic science.
This one is the core.
Your building blocks,anatomy, physiology, medical
terminology, infectioncontrol, safety protocols.
(03:05):
It's the science and structurethat everything else stands on.
When you understand how the bodyworks and how disease or injury
disrupts it, you're not justanswering test questions, you're
learning how to protect lives.
So if this section feels heavy,remember this is the part that
lets you speak the languageof healthcare, and that's
something to be proud of.
(03:26):
Number two, clinicalprocedures and patient care.
Now we move into the hands onpart, the skills that make you
a true medical professional.
Taking vitals, assistingproviders during exams,
performing lab tests, supportingpatients during procedures.
This is where theclassroom meets the clinic.
Every skill you'vepracticed, every checklist
(03:48):
you've completed, itall comes together here.
And when you're sitting inthat exam room, every scenario
question is really asking,can you handle this situation
calmly, safely, and withconfidence you can because
you've done it already.
Number three, administrativeand office skills.
(04:09):
The behind the scenesheroes, organization,
scheduling, documentation,and communication.
It might not always feelexciting, but this section
is the heartbeat of everyhealthcare office, accurate
records, clear charts,and proper building.
Those things keep patient carerunning smoothly, and protect
both patients and providers.
(04:31):
So when you study topicslike EHR systems or insurance
forms, remember this isn't justpaperwork, it's patient safety
and professionalism in action.
Number four, patientcommunication and education.
This one is my favoritebecause no matter what role
you have in healthcare, you'realways be working with people.
(04:53):
People who are scared in painor simply looking for answers.
This section isabout connecting.
It's about explaining thingsclearly, showing empathy, and
knowing how to adjust yourcommunication for every patient.
If you can make someonefeel seen and understood.
You're already practicinggood medicine no matter
what your title says.
(05:14):
So take this section to heart.
It's not just aboutpassing a test.
It's about building trust, thefoundation of all patient care.
Number five,coordination of care.
Healthcare is a team effort, andthis part of your exam checks
that you understand how allthe moving parts fit together,
how information flows betweendepartments, how referrals
(05:35):
work, how to follow up aftera test or an appointment.
When you coordinate careeffectively, you make sure no
one falls through the cracks.
It's a reminder that eventhough you may only handle
one part of the process, whatyou do affects everything
else and everyone else.
That's real responsibility.
(05:56):
That's real impact.
And finally, professionalism,ethics and compliance.
This section ties it alltogether because it's not
just about what you do.
It's about how you do it.
You'll see questions aboutpatient confidentiality, HIPAA
ethics, and workplace behavior,but deeper than that, it's about
(06:18):
integrity doing the right thing,even when no one's watching.
When you carry yourselfwith professionalism, you
don't just represent youremployer or your credential.
You represent the trust thatpatients place in healthcare
workers every single day.
So as you study,keep this in mind.
You're not preparingfor an exam.
If you're preparing to stepinto a career that saves
(06:40):
lives, supports families, andstrengthens communities, every
flashcard, every quiz, everylate night study session, it
all leads to that moment whensomeone looks at you and says,
thank you for helping me.
That's what you're workingtoward, and that's what
this exam is really about.
And if you prepare for anexam that doesn't cover
(07:01):
these exact areas, here'swhat I want you to do.
Take a few minutes to go online.
And search for yourspecific exam on Google.
Type in the name of yourexam and right after it,
type the word blueprint.
For example, if you're studyingfor the CPC exam, type in CPC
exam blueprint, then scrollpast the sponsored links and
(07:23):
check out the official ortrusted educational websites.
That's where you'll findthe detailed breakdown of
your exam, what's covered,what to focus on, and how to
structure your study time.
Because remember, the goalisn't just to study harder,
it's to study smarter.
When you understand theblueprint, you're already
halfway to success.
(07:44):
Now that you've gotten aclear picture of what's on
the exam, it's time to shiftgears because knowing what
to study is one thing, butknowing how to study, that's
where the real power lies.
Anyone can review flashcardsor reread notes, but top
performers, they use strategy.
They study with purpose.
(08:05):
So in this next part, we'regoing to walk through proven
ways to stay focused, studysmarter, and build the kind of
confidence that lasts all theway to test day and beyond.
Get ready.
This is your map exam,prep, special segment, study
strategies and preparation tips.
(08:25):
Get set.
Let's go.
Time to ignite, learn,grow, and shine your light.
Focus up the future and stretch.
It's time for a special segment,and this one's all about helping
you feel confident and fullyprepared for your upcoming exam.
(08:48):
Whether your test state is rightaround the corner or still a
few weeks away, this part ispacked with real practical
strategies you can start using.
Today.
We're diving into what actuallyworks, what doesn't, and how
to study smarter, not harder.
So you can walk into thattest room, calm, focused,
and ready to show exactlywhat you've learned.
And here's somethingto keep in mind.
(09:10):
Most certification exams don'tjust test what you remember.
They test how well you can applywhat you've learned into real
world healthcare situations.
That's why the most effectivestudy plan isn't about
memorizing every detail.
It's about building trueunderstanding, sharpening your
strategy, and learning howto think like a professional.
So let's get into it.
These are your study strategiesand preparation tips to help you
(09:31):
perform your best on exam day.
Step one, create a clear studyroadmap no matter which medical
exam you're preparing for.
Having a plan is whatseparates the overwhelmed
from the prepared.
If your test date's comingup, give yourself at least
four to six weeks to builda focus study schedule.
Start by breaking thematerial into major sections
(09:53):
as we discussed earlier.
Things like clinical knowledge,administrative procedures,
patient care, communication,safety and compliance.
Focus on one area at a timeso you can really understand
it before moving on.
Then in that final weekshift your focus to
review and practice test.
That last stretch isn'tabout cramming, it's
(10:14):
about building confidence.
Reinforcing what youknow and getting into
your test day rhythm.
And here's approach it.
Treat your study time,like a work shift when
it's time to study.
Clock in mentally, nodistractions, no halfway
there, effort, just you,your notes and your goal.
Because every hour you putin now is an investment
one that brings you closerto walking into that exam.
(10:37):
Calm, confident, and readyto show what you know.
Now that your roadmap isin place, let's talk about
how to make those studysessions really work.
Because success isn't justabout studying hard, it's
about studying smart Step twostudy tools, because having
the right resources can makeall the difference when it
comes to your exam success.
(10:58):
Start with the official studyguides and practice tests from
your certifying organization.
They're designed to mirrorthe real exam format.
Timing and question style.
She'll know exactly whatto expect on test day.
Now, official study guidesand practice tests can be
amazing tools when you'regetting ready for your exam.
But let's be honest, they're notalways within everyone's budget.
(11:22):
And if that's the case,don't stress, you can still
crush your exam without them.
What matters most is that youkeep studying and take advantage
of any free or affordablepractice exams you can find.
Remember.
These tests aren'tdesigned to see if you can
memorize their questions.
They're meant to measure howwell you understand what you've
learned and how you applyit in real life situations.
(11:43):
A study guide won'tmake you understand your
effort, your consistency,and your focus will.
That's what builds confidence.
That's what gets youacross the finish line.
Next, use flashcards.
Digital ones like Quizlet orold school index cards if you'd
like to write things down.
They're perfect for quickreview sessions when you've
(12:03):
only got a few minutes to spare.
But don't just read yournotes, engage with them.
Try explaining a conceptout loud as if you're
teaching it to a patient ora classmate, because when you
can teach it clearly, that'swhen you truly understand.
Here's another powerful tip.
Mix it up.
Alternate between reading,watching, review videos,
(12:24):
doing practice questions,and taking short quizzes.
Your brain learns best whenyou change how you study.
It keeps things fresh andhelps the information stick.
And don't forget abouttiming, study and focus burst.
Go hard for about 45to 50 minutes, then
take a 10 minute break.
It keeps your mind sharp andhelps prevent burnout because
(12:45):
remember, this isn't aboutcramming the night before.
It's about consistency.
A little focused effort everyday builds the confidence you
need to walk into that exam.
Feeling ready.
Now that you've got your planin place and your tools lined
up, it's time to talk abouthow to use them effectively
because not all studymethods are created equal.
(13:06):
Some help the informationstick while others just
make you feel productive.
If you really want tostudy smarter, this next
strategy is the game changer.
Let's talk about whyActive Recall always
beats passive review.
Let's talk about one ofthe biggest game changers
when it comes to studying.
Active recall, a lot of peoplemake the mistake of just reading
their notes or highlightinginformation over and over.
(13:29):
That's what we calla passive review.
And while it feelsproductive, it doesn't
really help your brainretain information Long term.
Active recall, on the otherhand, means pulling the
information outta your memory,not just looking at it.
That can mean quizzingyourself with flashcards,
covering up your notes andexplaining the concept out loud.
Taking short practice tests.
(13:51):
When you challenge your brainto retrieve information, you're
actually strengthening thosememory connections, kind of
like exercising a muscle.
The more you do it,the stronger it gets.
Here's an easy way to start.
After you finish studying asection, close your book and
try to teach it back eitherto a classmate, a friend, or
even just to yourself out loud.
(14:11):
If you stumbled through theexplanation, that's your signal
to go back and review that area.
So remember, don't justread it, recall it.
That's how you turnknowledge into confidence.
When test day comes, once you'vegot active recall working for
you and you're starting tolock in that knowledge, it's
time to take things up a notch.
Because knowing the materialis one thing, but being able to
(14:33):
perform under pressure is whatreally prepares you for testing.
That's where realisticpractice comes in.
So let's talk abouthow to practice under
the real conditions.
And make your study sessionsfeel just like the real exam.
Most certification exams followa pretty similar setup around
a couple hundred questionsand a few hours to finish.
That usually gives you about aminute per question, which means
(14:56):
time management matters just asmuch as knowing the material.
So before test day, make sureto take at least two full length
timed practice exams and don'tjust go through the motions.
Treat them like rehearsals Foryour big performance, think
of studying for your exam.
Like preparing for a live show,you wouldn't just read the
sheet music, you'd rehearse,you'd practice like you're
(15:19):
on stage under the lights.
With the full band behind you,it's the same with test prep.
Don't just flip through yournotes, simulate the real thing,
set a timer, find a quietplace, and take your practice
test as if it's exam day.
That's how you build rhythm,confidence, and flow.
So when the real day comes,you're not scrambling
(15:41):
or second guessing.
You're performing withpurpose, calm, and control.
And when you're done, don'tjust look at your score.
Study the story behind it.
What questions slowed you down?
Which topics trippedyou up more than once?
Are you rushing throughcertain sections?
That's where thereal growth happens.
When you find those patterns,you find your opportunities.
(16:03):
Every mistake becomes a lesson,and every lesson gets you
one step closer to masteringthe material and walking into
that exam with confidence.
Now that you practice underreal conditions and started
identifying those weakspots, the next step is key.
'cause here's the truth.
Your weaknessdoesn't define you.
How you work through them does.
(16:24):
This is where growthreally happens.
When you take whatchallenge you most.
And turn it into yourgreatest advantage.
So let's dig into it,how to strengthen your
weak areas and use themto power your successes.
When you're preparing for yourmedical exam, it's easy to
stick with what feels familiarto keep reviewing the sections
you already understand.
(16:45):
Here's the thing, real progresshappens when you lean into
areas that challenge you.
So here's your strategy.
After every practice test, taketime to review the questions
you missed and write them down.
Don't just glance at the correctanswer, dig into why it's
right, and just as important,why the others weren't.
(17:05):
That's how you turnconfusion into clarity.
If you start to notice apattern, maybe you're missing
pharmacology terms, clinicalprocedures, or maybe it's
administrative concepts.
Dedicate an entire studyblock to that topic.
Watch a short video, readthat section of your notes,
or make a few flashcardsfocus just on that one area.
(17:27):
Keep it simple, keep itconsistent, and that each
small breakthrough buildon the last, because growth
doesn't happen overnight.
It happens.
One question, one correction,and one aha moment at a time.
Every weakness you face, headon becomes one less thing
to worry about on test day.
(17:47):
So don't avoid thehard stuff, master it.
That's where your realconfidence comes from.
Let me give you anexample of what I mean
to master the hard stuff.
Back when I was in theNavy working in anesthesia,
I'll be honest, I wasterrible at starting IVs.
For those who might not know,an IV is what you place in
(18:08):
your arm, so we can giveyou fluids or medications.
As an anesthesia tech, that'ssomething you do all day.
I struggled with it andinstead of facing it head
on, I started to avoid it.
But one day my HM two.
Hospital corpsman second classfor my non Navy folk out there.
Notice what I was doing.
He pulled me aside and hesaid, you're either going to
(18:31):
learn how to do IVs or you'regoing to another department.
Then right in front of me,he picked up a IV needle,
stuck it in his own armand said, see, it's not
that hard and walked away.
You have no idea howvivid a memory that is.
Shout out to HM twoHankins out there.
(18:52):
That moment changedeverything for me.
I realized I needed to stoprunning from what was difficult
and instead master it.
From that day forward.
I volunteered for everytough stick I could find.
Slowly but surely I got better.
Before long, I became the personeveryone called when they had
an iv no one could get, andthis was before the ultrasound
(19:15):
machines they use now.
It was all skill,patience, and practice.
I'll never forget theday they asked me to
start an IV on a newborn.
That was an experienceI'll never forget.
But here's the point.
Avoiding the hard thingsonly holds you back.
Facing them, mastering them,that's what makes you grow.
That's what builds confidence.
(19:37):
And before you knowit, the thing that one
scared you becomes athing you're known for.
Before we move on, I wannatake a moment to remind
you of something important.
And this comes straightfrom our friends over at MA
Study Source on Instagram.
Everyone studies differently.
Everyone learnsat their own pace.
So if you ever find yourselfcomparing your progress to
(19:57):
someone else's, stop and takea breath, you might need more
time with one subject whilesomeone else grasps it quickly,
and that's completely okay.
It doesn't mean you're behind.
It means you're learning in theway that works best for you.
The goal isn't to race throughthe material, it's to understand
(20:17):
it because in healthcare,true understanding is what
makes you confident, capable,and ready to care for others.
So thank you at MA StudySource for that reminder.
And if you're lookingfor great study resources
and encouragement.
Make sure to check outtheir page and thank
you for the support.
Speaking of support, one ofthe best ways to stay motivated
(20:38):
and keep that understandinggrowing is through teamwork.
Let's talk about howjoining a study group or
a peer review session canmake all the difference.
Studying doesn't haveto be a solo mission.
Joining a study group, evena small one, can make a
huge difference in how wellyou retain information.
When you teach a topicto someone else, you're
(20:59):
not just helping them.
You're reinforcing your ownknowledge in a powerful way.
Explaining medical procedures,breaking down anatomy terms or
walking through patient caresteps out loud helps lock that
information in long-term memory.
And if you're someonewho struggles to stay
consistent, study partnershelp keep you accountable.
Whether you're meeting inperson on Zoom, or even just
(21:20):
sharing quiz questions througha group chat, the teamwork
keeps your motivation high.
Try scheduling one groupsession a week where everyone
brings one mini lesson or quiz.
You'll be surprised how muchyou learn from each other and
how much more confident you'llfeel when you realize, Hey, I
actually know this stuff Becauseremember, success in healthcare
(21:42):
has always been about teamwork.
And that starts righthere before you ever
step into the exam room.
So you've been putting in thetime, reviewing, practicing,
and maybe even teachingothers, and that's incredible.
But here's something alot of people forget.
While chasing success, yourbrain needs rest just as much
as it needs repetition, becauseno matter how hard you study,
(22:04):
if you're running on empty, yourfocus and memory starts to fade.
So before you dive into thatnext late night cram session.
Let's talk about somethingjust as important as
studying your wellness.
You can study for hours,run through practice,
test, and know everymedical term front to back.
But if you're exhausted,it's like trying to
(22:25):
drive with an empty tank.
Your brain is in a machine.
It needs downtime torecharge, reset, and actually
store what you've learned.
Sleep, nutrition, hydration.
They're not extras.
They're part of your study plan.
So here's your reminder.
Make rest a non-negotiableAim for at least seven
hours of sleep a nightleading up to your exam.
(22:48):
Take short breaks during yourstudy sessions Every hour.
Step away for five minutes,stretch or grab some water.
Those tiny breaks keep yourmind sharp and your stress low.
And don't forget to breathea few deep breaths before
you start studying or beforeyour exam can calm your
nerves and get you centered.
(23:08):
Remember.
A clear rested mind performsbetter than a tired one.
You work so hard to get here.
Trust your preparation, takecare of yourself, and walk into
that exam focused, confident,and ready to crush it.
You've built your knowledge,strengthen your study
habits, practiced underreal conditions and taken
(23:28):
care of your mind and body.
That's a solid foundation.
You've done the work and you'regetting closer every day to
crossing that finish line.
But before we wrap up.
Let's talk about something justas important, what not to do,
because sometimes avoiding afew simple mistakes can make you
just as much of a difference asall the studying in the world.
(23:50):
So let's flip the script andlook at some of the most common
pitfalls students run intobefore and during their medical
exams and more important.
How you can steer clear of themand walk into test day, calm,
confident, and fully prepared.
(24:12):
Alright, let's get into it.
These are some of the biggestmistakes I've seen students
make before test day andthe good news, every single
one of them can be avoided.
Mistake number one, crammingthe night before I get it.
It's tempting to squeeze inone last review session at
midnight, but here's the thing.
(24:32):
Cramming usually doesmore harm than good.
When you overload your brainright before the exam, you
increase stress and reducerecall instead, do a light
review earlier in the evening,pack your ID and essentials,
and get a solid night's sleep.
A clear rested mind.
Perform so much betterthan a tired one.
(24:53):
Mistake number two,ignoring the nonclinical
or administrative topics.
This one catches a lotof students off guard.
Most people pour all theirenergy into the hands-on
clinical material and skipright over the section
that deals with things likedocumentation, scheduling,
building, or communication.
Those areas really matter.
(25:14):
They're a big part of theexam and an even bigger part
of a real world healthcare.
So don't overlook them.
Take the time to review thoseadministrative concepts and
give that section the attentionit deserves, because sometimes
those extra points come fromtopics you almost skipped.
Mistake number three, skimmingquestions too quickly.
(25:34):
Here's a big one.
Rushing through your questions.
Think of your examlike a strategy game.
You wouldn't just makea move without scanning
the field, right?
You'd pause, ready toplay and make the next
move with confidence.
It's the same here.
Slow down, read carefully,and watch out for key
words like first, best,or most appropriate.
(25:56):
Those can completelychange the question.
Take your time, eliminatewrong answers, and
trust your instincts.
That's how you stay calm,focused, and in control.
Mistake number four, forgettinginfection control basics.
Never underestimate thepower of basics, infection
control, hand hygiene, PPE,sterilization, proper disposal.
(26:21):
These are straightforwardquestions that can
easily earn you points.
Review your standardprecautions because the test
absolutely checks for them.
The simple stuff can make abig difference in your score.
Mistake number five,poor time management.
You'll have about one minuteper question if you get stuck.
Don't panic, flag it.
(26:43):
Move on and circle back later.
You'll build momentumby knocking out the
questions you do know.
First, the rhythm keeps yourconfidence up and helps you
manage your time like a pro.
And here's a pretty coolthing to know about MO
certification exams.
If you flag any questions forreview, the system will just let
you hit submit and walk away.
It'll actually stop you for amoment and remind you that you
(27:04):
still have flagged questionsto look at before you finish.
It is like abuilt-in safety net.
One last chance to doublecheck your work and make
sure you've given it yourbest before locking in.
And finally, mistake numbersix, doubting yourself.
Don't doubt yourself.
This is a huge one.
(27:26):
Trust your first answer.
I can't say it enough.
Most of the time, your firstinstinct is your best one.
You've studied, you'vepracticed, and you
trained for this.
So when you read that question,trust the work you put in.
Go with your gut.
Stay confident and don'toverthink it because your
first answer comes from theknowledge you've built, not
(27:48):
the doubt that creeps in after.
Remember, avoiding thesesmall mistakes can make a
huge impact on your results.
You've learned thestrategies, built strong
habits, and now you know whatmistakes to steer clear of.
At this point, you'vedone everything you can
to prepare, so let's talkabout what happens next.
Because test day isn'tjust another study session.
(28:09):
It's your moment to show whatall the effort has built toward.
Here's what you can expect whenthe big day finally arrives
on exam day.
Give yourself plenty of time.
Arrive early soyou're not rushing.
Bring your valid ID any requiredpaperwork and leave your phone
and personal items behind.
Some locations won't allowthem in the testing area.
(28:32):
Once you check in, you'll geta short orientation that walks
you through the testing process.
Use the time to breathe,get comfortable and settle
in when the exam starts.
Take a deep breath andtrust your preparation.
You've studied, you'vepracticed, and you
know this material.
Pace yourself.
You've got about oneminute per question, so
(28:52):
stay ahead and focused.
If you hit a tough question,don't let it throw you off.
Flag it, move on,and come back later.
Remember, you'veworked hard for this.
This is your time to shine.
Stay calm, stay confident,and show what you know.
You've got this.
So you've made it throughtesting, the studying, the
(29:14):
nerves, the long hours.
It's all behind you now,but what happens next?
That moment when you walk outtathe testing room can bring a
mix of emotions, excitement,relief, maybe even a little
uncertainty, especially whenthose results pop up just
minutes later for some exams.
But here's the truth.
(29:34):
That single momentdoesn't define you.
What does define you isthe effort, the dedication,
and the courage it took toget there if you passed.
Congratulations.
Seriously, take that in.
You've earned this.
That certification isn'tjust a piece of paper.
It's proof that your hardwork, long nights and
(29:55):
determination paid off.
Now's the time to celebrate.
Update your resume.
Start reaching out to clinics,hospitals, or offices, and
take the next big step towardyour career in healthcare.
And if things didn'tgo exactly as planned,
don't let it stop you.
Some of the best medicalprofessionals out there, they
didn't pass their first exam,but they learned regrouped.
(30:17):
Came back stronger.
Look over yourperformance report.
Focus on the areasthat need improvement
and build a new plan.
You've already done thehardest part showing up.
Remember, this isn'tjust about one test.
It's about growth,resilience, and believing
your own potential.
You've proven thatyou're capable.
(30:39):
Now, keep that momentum goingbecause this is only the
beginning of your journey.
Alright, we've talkedstrategies, study tips,
and everything you needto prep for your exam.
But now it's timeto shift gears.
Time for your map moment.
Where we turn what we'velearned into action,
(31:05):
it's time for stay focused.
Here's your mapmoment for this week.
(31:25):
A quick confidence check-in.
On a scale from one to 10,how confident do you feel
about your next big step?
It might be your exam, a newskill, or even just balancing
everything on your plate.
Take a second to behonest with yourself.
What's your number now?
Think of one small action youcan take this week to move that
number up by just one point.
(31:48):
Maybe it's reviewing one trickytopic every morning before work.
Maybe it's asking aclassmate for help.
Maybe it's simply remindingyourself that you've come
further than you realized.
Confidence isn't aboutnever feeling nervous.
It's about showing up anywayand proving to yourself
that you can handle it.
So that's your map moment.
Your challenge is to takeone action that boosts
(32:10):
your confidence this week.
And hey, if you'd like to sharewhat you're doing to boost
your confidence this week,I'd love to hear from you.
Send your map moment tomap podcast@outlook.com.
Who knows, we might shareyour story in an upcoming
episode to inspire otherson their journey too.
Remember, small progress isstill progress, and every step
(32:31):
counts towards your success.
You know, any big certificationexam can feel a little
intimidating at first, andthat's completely normal.
But here's the truth.
This test isn'tmeant to trick you.
It's designed to help youprove what you already know.
Everything you needis already in you.
Your training, your effortand your commitment have
(32:54):
brought you this far and theyprepared you for this moment.
If you stay consistent,stay focused, and keep
the right mindset, youwill get through it.
And when you do, you'll stepforward with confidence.
Ready to begin the nextchapter of your medical career.
This was a deep episodepacked with a lot of valuable
information, but all of itis designed to guide you.
(33:18):
To help you stay on course andkeep moving forward on your
map, your pathway to success.
And here's something to keep inmind as you head into the week.
Preparation is a lotlike following a map.
Every session, every practicetest, every late night note,
it's another turn bringing youcloser to your own destination.
So keep moving forward,keep refining your path,
(33:41):
and when exam date comes,you'll be ready to show the
world what you're made of.
If you enjoyed today's episode,make sure to follow the show
and share it with anyonechasing their healthcare dreams.
I'd love to hear from you.
If there's a topic you wantme to cover, a story you'd
like me to share, or somethingthat helped you along the
way on your own medicaljourney, send me an email
(34:03):
at Map podcast@outlook.com.
Your ideas and experiencecould expire someone
else on their path.
Until next time, keeplearning, keep growing, and
keep following your map, yourmedical pathway for success.
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