Can I become a nurse with dyslexia?

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Hello, I'm contemplating nursing school. I have dyslexia; generally, an adult with dyslexia will have trouble reading, writing, and spelling. Grammar and punctuation may also be a challenge. These difficulties can impact the memory, math skills, time management, and self-esteem. It worries me alot that I may can't pursue my dream of becoming a nurse due too this disability. Nursing school is hard for an Honor student,  so, I know I'll have to work twice as hard than an average student. During grade school I was in special ED, a class full of students whom learn at a slower pace than regular learning stundents. When I attended high school, I was in regular classes but I struggled really bad. After finishing high-school I was so discouraged of attending a college due to my learning disability. Eventually, I decided to put my fears to the side and enter into a community college. Guess what happened? I flunked out! I then went and got my certification for Nursing Assistant. A 5wks basic program that teaches how to care for seniors with assistance of their Activities of Daily Life. I worked as a CNA under the supervision of a qualified nurse for 14yrs. I was in despair that I wasn't the nurse I longed to be. Now, after 14yrs of being out of school, I want to give it a second shot and try again to becoming a nurse. Have you encountered an aspired nurse with dyslexia and finished the nursing program with much success?

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Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

 

It's great that you're contemplating pursuing your dream of becoming a nurse despite your challenges. Your story shows a lot of determination, and that's a crucial quality in nursing school and in life in general. You're not alone in your struggles. Many nurses have overcome learning differences, including dyslexia, to achieve their goals.

Nurses with Dyslexia: Success Stories and Strategies

Many nurses with dyslexia have succeeded in nursing school and beyond. It may require different strategies, accommodations, and much self-advocacy, but it's absolutely possible. The key is to recognize that everyone learns differently and that there's no one-size-fits-all path to success.

  • Leverage accommodations. Nursing programs are required by law to provide reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Many students with dyslexia use accommodations like extra time for tests, audio books, note-takers, and permission to record lectures. Some programs even offer alternative test formats (e.g., oral exams or verbal responses instead of written ones). Be sure to inquire about the specific accommodations available at the nursing schools you're considering.
  • Utilize technology. Many nursing students with dyslexia have found that assistive technology helps significantly. Text-to-speech software, speech-to-text tools, and apps like Grammarly for spelling and grammar can make reading and writing easier. Additionally, there are apps designed for note-taking and organizing study materials.
  • Study techniques. Consider using multimodal learning techniques, like creating visual aids, flashcards, or mind maps. Studies show that people with dyslexia often do better with visual and hands-on learning. You could also find ways to simplify complex material using diagrams and charts often present in nursing resources.
  • Support groups and mentorship. There are also support groups and mentorship programs specifically for nursing students with learning differences. Connecting with others who've walked the same path can be invaluable. Some schools offer peer tutoring or have study groups where students support each other.
  • Your CNA experience. Your experience as a CNA gives you a unique advantage. You've already worked with patients in a healthcare setting for 14 years. That hands-on experience can be a huge asset in nursing school. Many nursing schools value experience and have special paths or "advanced placement" options for students already working in the field.
  • Mindset and perseverance. It's important to remember that you've already overcome significant challenges—finishing your CNA program and working for 14 years in healthcare is a tremendous accomplishment! Your perseverance and real-world experience will give you the resilience to tackle nursing school.

Steps to Take Next

  • Reach out to admissions. Contact the admissions office of nursing programs you're interested in to discuss accommodations and to ask if they have a history of supporting students with dyslexia. Make sure you're aware of the support available.
  • Explore financial aid for students with disabilities. Some scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities are available specifically for students with learning differences. Look into those options as they might provide some extra support.
  • Consider a pre-nursing program. If you're unsure about jumping straight into a nursing program, some schools offer pre-nursing programs or foundational courses that could help you ease into the material while receiving additional support.
  • Professional tutoring. Many students with dyslexia find it helpful to work with a tutor who specializes in working with students with learning differences. A tutor can provide individualized strategies and help with nursing school's academic and emotional challenges.

In summary, many nurses with dyslexia have overcome the odds and succeeded in their careers. With the right support, accommodations, and a tailored learning approach, you can achieve your dream of becoming a nurse. Remember that your experience as a CNA is invaluable and could provide a solid foundation upon which to build in nursing school. Don't let your fears hold you back—there are ways to make it work, and you have the resilience to make it happen!

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

 

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