Can I be a nurse with comprehension problems?

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Dear Wants to be a Nurse,

Comprehension challenges present obstacles but doesn't automatically preclude you from becoming a nurse. 

Nursing requires a strong understanding of medical concepts, critical thinking, and excellent communication skills. 

Comprehension problems can be an inability to grasp the meaning of words, phrases, and paragraphs. There are many causes, including ADHD and dyslexia, and also many strategies and resources to help you succeed academically. 

Here are some steps to consider:

Assess Your Comprehension Identify the specific areas you struggle with. Are they related to vocabulary, complex concepts, or specific subjects? Understanding your unique challenges will enable a more targeted strategy.

Contact an academic advisor with a nursing program at a nursing school or community college. They can provide guidance on the best approach for your situation.

Start slowly. Nursing requires prerequisites, including some general education courses.  If you are just starting in college, take a small load to reduce stress while acclimating to academia. 

Explore Learning Support Services Schools often have resources to support students like yourself. Colleges and nursing programs may offer learning support services, including study groups and academic workshops.

Some students benefit from accommodations such as extended time on tests, access to audiobooks, or tutoring.  Take advantage of these resources to improve your comprehension.

Assistive Technology Utilize assistive technology such as text-to-speech software or audiobooks to supplement your reading.  These tools can make it easier to access and understand study materials.

Study Effectively Develop effective study habits, including creating study schedules, using flashcards, and summarizing complex concepts in your own words.

Participate in Study Groups Join or form study groups with fellow students. Discussing and explaining concepts to each other can significantly enhance comprehension.

Ask Questions Don't hesitate to ask for clarification from instructors during class or study sessions. Remember, there are no dumb questions. Chances are that someone else in the group has the same question.

Stay Organized Keep your study materials organized and use tools like notebooks, digital notes, or color-coded systems and highlighters to help you retain information.

Practice Critical Thinking Nursing involves critical thinking and problem-solving. Practice critical thinking exercises and scenarios to develop these skills.

Seek Emotional Support Don't underestimate the power of emotional support. Talk to friends, family members, or a counselor if you're feeling overwhelmed or stressed.

Consider Online or Hybrid Programs Some nursing schools offer online or hybrid programs that may provide more flexibility and accommodate different learning styles.

Remember that many nurses have faced challenges in their educational journey and have overcome them. With extra effort, determination, support, and the right strategies, you'll be poised to give it your best shot. 

Don't hesitate to reach out to nursing programs and academic advisors to discuss your specific needs and explore the best path forward. Many resources go unused because people fail to ask.

When the time comes, there are standardized tests designed to assess your readiness for nursing school. Based on these tests, along with other factors, you will have a sense of your likeliness to succeed. You will never know until you try.

Along the way, look for signs to guide you. These include successes, failures, and unexpected opportunities. Sometimes  failures can be a nudge to take another path. Be flexible and open-minded. Be kind to yourself, and good luck!

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

 

[TriciaJ, RN]

It's not clear what kind of comprehension problem you have.  Most nursing students find the academic requirements challenging enough without comprehension problems.

It might be worth your while to talk with a vocational counselor.  That person may be able to give you an assessment of your skills and challenges and give you a realistic view of what you'd be up against.

Another option would be to take a CNA course.  Much less of a time and money commitment and you'd get a chance to see if going on to nursing would be in the realm of possibilities.

Good luck, whatever you take on.