First day of my REAL Nursing classes..scared ):

Katie71275 · Jul 10, 2012

First, take a deep breath! I promise it will be OK. You can do it! That first day is exciting and scary all rolled in and you have a lot of "Omg what did I just get myself into?" thoughts. It's normal and OK. We also had to assess each other and that was not fun..Im also self conscious, but I knew people in the class(it just so happens my twin sister is also in ns with me!) so we did that on each other and a friend so that really eased the nerves.

How long till your books ship? Hopefully it will be quick, but try not to worry! (Easier said than done I know)

Seas · Jul 10, 2012

It is yucky to have to assess your classmates like this. I would be uncomfortable too. Thankfully, my school didn't require such a thing. Heck, isn't that what the clinicals are for anyway?

I remember I hated nursing school on my first week. I also failed the first exam, lol.

It feels uncomfortable when all the nursing school work hits you sudden like this, as you are just starting. But you get used to it. Just hope you get your books fast. Because nursing school is fast track, you can fall behind easily.

johnny depp23 · Jul 10, 2012

You started your first day in July? That's odd, but kinda cool. Well, anyway, like missy up top said, don't stress it too much. Just relax and do lots of reading on the internet until your books arrive. Also, if ya afraid of showing ya arms and stomach during assessment, just tell the teacha ya have a slight case of agoraphobia.

runforfun · Jul 10, 2012

Fear is a natural reaction to something that we aren't used to or don't know about. Keep that in mind. But...DON'T BE SCARED! Don't do without books either. Not that you can do anything about getting your sooner if you've ordered them online, but you can make a friend or if you already have one get together and study. Do not Do not Do not fall behind already. The worst thing you can do is fall behind and try to catch up. We are finishing that last 2 weeks of our first semester in my program and that is the biggest thing that I've learned. I'm functioning on very little sleep and am looking forward to the week we get off between summer and fall semesters so much to just sleep and clean my apartment!

As far as assessments, don't worry too much about it. I would maybe meet with your professor during office hours and talk to them about exactly what makes you nervous about it. There is no way you are the first person to have these feelings, and you certainly won't be the last. Your professor will probably have some advice to make you feel more comfortable. Heck, go meet with all of them and just ask for what advice they can offer someone who is feeling a bit overwhelmed, or ask any questions that you think the answer to might make you feel a little more comfortable with what you are doing.

Now your shoes. Do not try to choose a pair that looks good. Nobody cares what your feet look like when you are taking care of them. Try to find a pair of shoes that a comfortable. You will be wearing them for long periods of time. Think back, have you ever been to the ER, or in the hospital, or did you ever really look at your nurses' shoes when you went in for routine doctor's visits? Even if you did, the majority of people aren't paying attention, and they certainly aren't judging you based on what your shoes look like. Be comfortable and take good care of people :)

Summary: Borrow or share books until yours come in, don't fall behind, talk to your professors, comfortable shoes.

RB2000 · Jul 15, 2012

like everyone else is saying fear and anxiety is natural. most are a little shy when it comes to their own bodies. the truth of the matter is, so are our patients. this exercise will definitely help you see a glimpse thru the eyes of your future patients. i remember practicing on fellow classmates for the first time. you should have seen our vs readings. i actually had an instructor tell me to relax and to slow my breathing. i was ready to pass out! lol nursing school can definitely feel overwhelming, and the first semester can be very scary. keep your head up, face your fears, and keep the ball rolling! you will be so happy that you pushed thru it in the end! good luck! : )

ErikaMarie · Jul 24, 2012

It helps to know that the other students are probably feeling the exact same way. Pair up with someone you think might have these issues too, rather than the girl who could be a model & will make you feel less about yourself.