Feeling Inadequate

[StrokeAlert, ADN]

hi all. i'm new to the boards; this is actually my first post. i am currently in a 2 year adn program starting my 4th quarter. so, i'm about half way through the program. i'm just wondering if it's normal to feel so inadequate. i've never scored lower than a high b on any of my theory exams, done well in all my clinical (not bragging, just trying to make my point)...but i just feel like there is something missing, like i'm not where i should be right now. i feel like i should know so much more. this feeling has increased immensely, i believe due to the fact that we have to take the hesi this quarter. i'm scheduled to take my hesi next tuesday and i feel just awful about it. sorry for babbling on, i was just wondering if what i was feeling is normal...will i ever get over this feeling?

[swansonplace]

I just hate that feeling. Nursing school is quite draining. Try and speak with other students in the nursing program, you will see that you are not alone. It is a tough program, and congrats on making to the first year. It is quite an accomplishment!!! Tests are so stressful. Is there anything you can do to lesson the stress? Like workouts, something stress reliving- but postive, practice HESI tests, group study, some schools have yoga classes, test taking skills classes, private tutors, email tutors, ask your professor for guidance, ask an advisor for guidance, work out in the gym, post questions or concerns, etc.

:)

[AOx1]

I couldn't agree more with the above post. Talk to others, you often find they feel similarly. I liken it to high school- in high school nearly everyone feels awkward. Some cover it by being mean to others and acting "cool," others are convinced they are nerds. I spent the greater majority of high school feeling like a "nerd," only to wind up friends with the most popular girl in our school.....who felt exactly the same!

There is nothing that makes you feel worse than isolation- you feel like you're the only one who doesn't know it all. I am in my doctoral program, have taught for awhile, been a nurse for quite some time, and still feel that I have a world of things I don't know. Try to reframe it as an adventure. For example, instead of saying "I hardly know anything," try to think of how far you've come.

Also, to get an objective read on your strengths and weaknesses, use practice NCLEX questions and tests. This will give you a more accurate view of your knowledge and readiness for HESI.

[swansonplace]

I have looked at two school statistics, and to get to the one year point is truly a great thing. The standard has been raised on us, and it's great that you have made it. Statistically you do have the skills to make it through. It's the emotional stress and confusion that is the toughest part of it all.It's just important that you create a support network around you as nursing school challenges everyone. Try and find positive ways to relieve the stress. That's the trick.