Terrified Med Surg student

Nursing Students General Students

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:uhoh3:I am just a little terrified of my second semester in my 2 year RN program. Do you have any suggestions?

The fail out out this point will be around 50%. I am concerned because I made C in fundamentals last semester, forgot my pharm and assessment already. Just overwhelmed with the syllabus amount of work that must be done.

I study alone mostly, and could use any suggestions to help: software, online tools, where to get tutors, anything. My school has free tutors that are excellent, but in a book I read how to survive nursing school, private tutors was the number one recommended item.

Suggestions would be great on how to make it through this semester.

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Specializes in being a Credible Source.

Well first of all, try to relax. Fear, panic, terror, etc inhibit learning and performance.

You're probably justified to be concerned if the fail rate is going to be 50% and you only made a C in fundamentals and if you've truly forgotten the bulk of your pharm and assessment.

Advice:

1) Study consistently.

2) Buckle down and forego the nonessential activities of life for the semester (that is, parties, hanging out, TV, movies, BF/GF, etc).

3) Start reviewing the older stuff ASAP and continue your review along the way.

4) Don't waste time trying to find tricks/tips/tools online... except perhaps for reviewing procedures on YouTube videos... you need to spend time studying... as much time as you possibly can.

5) Aggressively look for underutilzed time... 10 minutes here and there throughout the day can add up to a couple/few hours over a week.

6) If you're having trouble with concepts, find a good tutor (advertise in the local paper, on Craigslist, around campus, and in the breakroom at a local hospital). A tutor is only useful for conceptual stuff. Othewise, you just need the time in the material.

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wow! i'm starting Med Surg this semester too and I feel the same way!! There's something so "Mystically Frightening" about Med Surg. Classes resume for me on the 22nd, but I've started studying already... Wishing us ALL success for the coming semester!! :D

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I am so glad I am not the only one. My class has shrunk by 50%, and it will again shrink by 50%. Just gotta stay on top of my game.

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My advice is, before you start looking for tips and tricks...look at why you only made a C and forgot most of your pharm and assessment stuff.

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I barely passed my first semester too! I was right at the cut-off for a C and thought OMG, I am going to be going on to med-surg and I actually got a B in it! I think first semester is the hardest because there is so much to learn.

I would definitely purchase a nclex book with a CD in it! I started using the CD and learned how to take tests much better!

Good Luck! Don't let the 50% scare you. You can do it!

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