squirmals, back in the dark ages, when I was just beginning, we could work as graduate nurses until we took the boards.  I worked, studied moderately, mostly reviewed things an hour a night.  Got a wonderful nights sleep, (because those of us who worked, instead of staying home and studying, were absolutely exhausted) before taking the first day of testing.....yepper back when the test was two full days.  Those of us who worked before the exams all passed with flying colors.  Those who didn't, had a much more difficult time.  To this day I firmly believe several things. 

1.  I was well rested for the exam

2.  I was working and actually applying what I had learned

3.  I seemed to have more confidence in myself because I was working.

Most of us didn't think much about the boards after taking them other than we were glad it was over, at least for right then.  Did we all shake in our shoes as the 8 weeks.......yep count them, 8 whole weeks it took for results, got so much closer?  Oh you betcha.  Back then if you passed you got a slim white envelope, if you failed you got a big manila envelope with all the paperwork and information  to begin the application process to take the boards over again.  Didn't remember that information when I saw the envelope with my name on it and the state board of nursing, I remember starting to shake and becoming nauseous but let me tell you, every single person in my neighborhood knew I passed my boards, because I shouted it out louder than I had ever shouted in my life.

However follow your gut, but you'll have far less stress and sleep much better if you're physically working at your profession, than sitting around studying and freaking out.