[Nursie-poo wannabe]

I hope I put this in the right place, this is my first time here.
This August I will be starting clinics, after being on the wait list awhile, having a baby, then being on the wait list some more. It's been awhile since I have had a nursing related class-since the wait lists are so very long. But, I have finally gotten to the clinic part.
And now, I'm really scared. I'm terrifed I will fail because I have so much riding on my success.
So, I'd like to know if any of you have already gotten past this point and what you think the best keys to success are. And also if you could let me know a little of what to expect?
Thanks!

[3sodapop]

I'm 4 weeks away from being done (yay!). If I had to give any advise about clinicals, it would be to do your research ahead of time (diagnosis, meds...), and have a plan of what you want to achieve (bedbath, vitals, heat to toe assessment, i&o, documentation). Keep your list handy, and always have a watch, bandage scissors, tape measure, & a sharpie marker on you. IMHO, it's annoying when people come to clinical unprepared.

Relax, the instructor is there for you and there's no need to stress. You'll learn a lot if you follow the instructor when you're not busy.
Good luck!

[amjowens]

Congrats! It sounds like you have a lot going on!

I've finished my first semester of LPN school. I find the clinical experience to be the easiest part. It's stressful, but with the group you're in, and the instructor as guide, just be sure to do your part (the above advice is just perfect!), and you'll be fine.

It sounds like you've already taken nursing courses? That would be wonderful to not have to take all those plus clinicals! I found the biggest challenge to be balancing everything. I learned time-management to be CRITICAL-two or three weeks in advance-know all exam dates, and don't think starting to study too soon is ever too soon!

We had to make note cards of drugs (info from drug books) of each of our patients (we only had one!). If my patient took 12 drugs on my shift, I had a card for each drug. Any questions, there it was in my pocket. I learned to make notes for any bit of info (a notecard each time or so of details).

Sounds like I'm a crazy note-taker...hmm...well, you'll find your way that works! Good luck!