Any 3rd semester advice???

motay68 · Dec 25, 2014

When they instructors tell you to read the chapters first... DO IT. I think as first years we really don't appreciate how much the instructors hold our hands and help us through. As second years they expect you to act like you are a nurse. If you can make it through, it is extremely rewarding.... But it is an immense amount of work on your part.

Also, start practicing NCLEX questions. That will help a lot. Good luck to you!

clloydself · Dec 25, 2014

Thanks a lot!!! I'll be sure to do that!

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MrsComboCurlz, ASN, BSN, RN · Dec 26, 2014

:woot:Yep, for my 3rd out of 4 semester's I'm facing (Psych) Mental Health/Medsurg 2 and Leadership. Words of advise by those that "been there, done that" is very much appreciated...Thank you

and ALL THE BEST to you #FutureNurses for 2015!

Everline · Dec 27, 2014

Third semester was the toughest semester for my classmates and me. Our school really stepped up the expectations, especially in clinical. It was helpful to brush up on my skills, both through practice and watching videos or whatever other way I could do it. In clinical, I made a little book that contained important info, including codes for the various doors on the unit in which we worked, locations of supplies, common meds and etc. I carried this book with me everywhere. I even had little cut out pictures for different types of supplies.

One thing I wish I'd done is become prepared emotionally. It was a very trying semester and I did not have a plan in place to deal with the stress. If I were to do it over again (God forbid), I would make a realistic schedule for myself for self care and have something in place to help me relax on particularly stressful days. For some people that means exercise and diet and others that might mean time for meditation or reading. I also would have created a journal. I kept a personal journal, with all my real thoughts and feelings and whining and crying, during my 4th and 5th semesters and it helped tremendously. Wish I had started it from the beginning.

Best wishes as you go forward and move closer to graduation. It may seem like it's moving slowly while it's happening but then suddenly you will be at your pinning. Work hard and if you can enjoy any of it, do that. :-)

LoriRNCM, ADN, ASN, RN · Dec 27, 2014

It was the hardest for us too. We had mother baby and medsurg II. Two patients in clinicals a lot of the time. I don't know if anything can prepare you ahead of time, it builds on what you already know. I'd say if you struggle at all, seek help early on. I never spent so much time studying. I mean hours and hours a day. But that's nursing school! I'm lucky I finished third semester as well as I did because it totally kicked my butt. Just hunker down and make it happen and good luck to you! :yes: