Overwhelmed First Level Nursing Student!!

Lola Lou, BSN · Feb 27, 2014

You said that you’re very overwhelmed and one way to beat that feeling is to be as organized as possible. Buy a monthly or weekly planner, take all of your class syllabi and record when each assignment, quiz, or test is due. I went as far as to color code each specific task (tests one color, papers another). If you can visualize what you have due ahead of time it may be easier to prioritize. It also gives you the opportunity to complete things in advance. I would always try to complete research papers ahead of time since I did not necessarily need class content but rather independent research information to do it.

While I was in school (and to this day) I would make daily lists. They could include little tasks such as gather 5 reputable sources for a paper or larger tasks like starting a care plan. Once the task was done it felt great to cross it off my list. Some people are lucky enough and do not need to study a lot. I for one am not gifted in that sense and I knew it. I accepted the fact that I had to prepare at least week in advance for a test. But, in doing that I was not stressing out and cramming the night before. I used the day before a test to leisurely review content that I felt I was weakest in and then I would go for a walk, watch a movie, eat a good meal, and go to bed early so I would feel rested the next day.

I highly suggest taking advantage of your school tutoring program (most schools have them). They can teach you how to study because each person is different in how they retain information.

My last bit of advice is probably one of the most important tip IMO. I would suggest approaching each of your instructors (professionally and politely) and explain/show your new plan of attack for how you are going toa chieve better results throughout the rest of the semester. That will give you the opportunity to show them that you are taking initiative, not giving up, and that you really do want to succeed in your nursing program. Instructors are not there to make you fail. Believe it or not they enjoy interacting with students who want to learn and do well. Prove to them through your actions that you are willing to put in the time and effort. The professional and friendly relationship that you establish with your instructors now will set a precedent for how you interact with your coworkers and supervisors once you are in the work field. Keep in mind these same instructors will also be your professional and personal references when you apply for your first nursing job. The better ther elationship the better the reference.

Ok I will end my “how to succeed in nursing school” rant. If you truly want to be a nurse you will find the energy and effort that it takes to get through it. Good luck!!!!

Lola Lou, BSN · Feb 27, 2014

You also mentioned in your original post that you have class or clinicals Monday through Thursday. That leaves Friday through Sunday to focus on the things that you may not have had time to focus on during your week. Are you?

Lev, MSN, RN, NP · Feb 28, 2014

Speak with your teachers and reinforce your commitment to your studies and ask them for advice. What do you do during class that makes them feel you are not committed? Are you on your phone by any chance? It makes sense to look at your syllabi and then read the book. The book is overwhelming and there is way too much information to memorize. You need to find a study plan that works for you. Practicing NCLEX type questions is a must. It's also important to review as you go along, not just right before the test. Every day, there has to be some review going on. The study group sounds great! Teaching other people, helps you retain information.

ellaballet · Feb 28, 2014

The success books really help. Whats made a difference for me is not figuring out the thought process behind why all of the other answers are wrong.