Extremely Frustrated

feisty · Jan 28, 2009

I remember this feeling. First, stop listening to those horror stories about the hesi and nclex. If you have done well thus far then you can go into these test with the knowledge that you know the material. Test taking is about figuring out what they want, follow maslows, nursing process, etc.

The amount of work is unreal during the last semester so it is best to organize youself. Use a calendar. Remember to prioritize according to importance and eliminate unnecessary stressors.

Rest, eat healthy, hydration, and laughter. Essential for success.

You can do this. Believe it or not...May will be here before you know it and you will be marching across that stage for the pinning ceramony.

As for the nclex, practice questions will help tremendously with that. Understanding how to discern what they are asking and applying the afore mentioned maslow's and nursing process will ensure success. This will happen as you take the practice tests and read the rational given.

Jean1313 · Jan 28, 2009

It can be really overwhelming. Are you going to take any time off after you graduate? I found it easier to separate everything. I just focused on finishing nursing school. After I graduated, I took a month and did Kaplan practice tests. I scheduled my practice tests like work, get up, review, do tests online. Eat dinner, see friends. Doesn't make the process stress-free, but it lets you focus all your concentration on each thing and lets you do your best.

Just some thoughts. Good luck!

Spoiled627 · Jan 28, 2009

I remember that all too well (I'm so glad it's over for me) but in a couple of months you'll be in my shoes and you'll look back and think-- why did I stress out so much??? ( hard to believe, I know, but it's true!!!! )

When May rolled around for me, I was a nut case. I was angry, overwhelmed, sensitive, and I cried even if you touched me lol. I remember, no matter how hard people tried to convince me otherwise I couldn't imagine not worrying about tests or CLINICAL PAPER WORK!!!! OMG. All I can say now is take it one day at a time.

Get a planner (you should have one already!!) and schedule study time, homework time, and alone time (alone time most important). Get organized, get to class and clinical 10-15 minutes early, and even though it's hard to come home from clinical and do paper work: DO IT!! you'll be so happy you did the next day. Don't stress it!! NCLEX is not that bad. It all depends how you look at it. Think about it: I wouldn't want a dumb nurse taking care of me. Would you???

eriksoln, BSN, RN · Jan 28, 2009

Hmm, funny. I dont try to be, but I always seem to be the exception. My last semester was my best and favorite.

I didnt pay attention to everyone telling horror stories about NCLEX though. I was a CNA and had talked that thing to death with the RNs I worked under. I think that helped.

I also cut my hours back a little during my last semester, but I see you've already done that.

The thing that made the last semester unique to me was, there was a lot of bussy work that was not directly related to school. Looking forward to possible job opportunities, planning for the NCLEX, the paperwork for applying to be allowed to test etc.. It worked as a distraction for me I guess.

Having gotten engaged during that semester kind of put things into perspective too.

Thats it..........go get married. It'll relieve your stress............