So stressed..

Nursing Students LPN/LVN Students

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Im in my first week of my LPN school. It is an 11 month program, so it is fast moving. Basically, a normal day is: take notes on chapter 1, go home, outline chapter 2 for the following day while also studying for the chapter 1 test that is the next day. there are 2 subjects a day. Basically, you are studying for 2 different subjects every night while outlining the following chapters. Im not sure if I worded that correctly, but I hope you understand. I knew going into this that it would be a lot of work, I just didnt imagine the stress level. Im basically teaching myself everything. 3 hours of lecture is not enough to be tested the following day. People have gotten through it, so I know its possible, it's just very stressful.

I know this is what I want to do, Im just hoping that I am actually able to do it. If you fail 2 exams, you are kicked out of the program. I understand why, it's just scary to think about, when youhave 2 tests a day. Im up all hours of the night studying, and it's still hard for me to understand. Im to the point where I even feel guilty eating dinner with my family because I need to study. But all the hours of studying Im doing, isnt even paying off, because I still barely understand.

Im just venting and Im sorry this got to be so long. I hope there is someone out there that has felt this way that can help get me through it.

Any advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks!

I am in a 10 month program and we have four classes this semester, so I definitely understand. We just started class last Friday, we have had 4 quizzes, and 2 tests this week. Next week it is looking like we will have 4 tests. We had to read 7 chapters and do a ton of review questions/practice problems. I can see where you are coming from. We already had one drop out and another cried yesterday in class. Keep it up, you can do this!

Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

Use your study guides/workbooks, CD/DVD-roms that come with your books, and any online access codes you get with your books. All are excellent reinforcement study tools that can help you stay ahead of the gain. Many of the online resources also include NCLEX-style questions that start your prep for the licensing exam early.

Yeah, I have four classes too. I don't like having that many at once. I tried to take one of them earlier, but they wouldn't let me. :( Very busy week this week.....

i'm about to be starting a 12-month program, and i work 50 hours a week and i have a 2-year-old. i have no idea how i'm going to make it all work but i don't really have an option not to. i can't keep waiting tables forever to pay the bills. i had my program visit today and i'm so stressed out because i have no idea how i'm going to have time for everything. i can't quit working, i can't drastically reduce my hours...but i have to do this for my family. i'm just going to get alot better at time management and not sleeping i guess.

Specializes in Pediatrics.
i'm about to be starting a 12-month program, and i work 50 hours a week and i have a 2-year-old. i have no idea how i'm going to make it all work but i don't really have an option not to. i can't keep waiting tables forever to pay the bills. i had my program visit today and i'm so stressed out because i have no idea how i'm going to have time for everything. i can't quit working, i can't drastically reduce my hours...but i have to do this for my family. i'm just going to get alot better at time management and not sleeping i guess.

You should STOP. Overwhelmingly, chances are that you will NOT be able to complete the program. If it is impossible for you to not work, or not work a LOT, just STOP. There is no reason for you to be in an accelerated LPN course. Start taking pre-reqs at your local community college, because the pace is different and you will still be working toward an RN. LPN's don't make that much, and depending on your restaurant, you will actually take a pay cut until you attain your RN.

One of the big things I see with people is instant gratification. The "I need to be a nurse RIGHT NOW" mentality is unrealistic unless you're in a situation where there is financial stability and support. If anyone stated they would work 50 hours a week, a reputable program probably wouldn't accept them.

I don't want to just trash your dream and tell you to give up. I also work in the same soul-crushing line of work, and another job on top of that. But the ONLY reason I can still do it and make A's without losing sleep is a memory capacity that borders on photographic. There is nothing noble about it; if I was in a position to not work, I woul take it in a heartbeat.

Good luck on whichever path you choose. Just remember that there is more than one path to becoming a nurse, and you CAN find one that works for you!

Actually in the US the median salary for LPN/LVN's are about $41,000, full time. Apparently average waitress salaries are $37,000 full time, but, I'm not sure how much I believe that.

Is 12 months really accelerated for LPN, anyways? All the LPN programs in my area are that long.

That is besides the point anyway, good luck sbear24, because you will need it. If you do want to make it through the program, you're going to have to cut some hours to maintain your sanity. There are a lot of financial aid programs and loans and you can pocket part of that money as well. Going to a community college I've gotten back about $1000 a semester, so at least it's something.

Specializes in 1st year Critical Care RN, not CCRN cert.

Everyone is giving good advice so I'll just say. You are in nursing school, this isn't like any other school you will attend. Tell everyone you will see them in a year and buckle down for a long haul that is so worth it in the end!!

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