First Semester Nursing Student!

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Specializes in Critical Care.

Hi All!

So I was finally accepted into upper division after being on the waiting list for a short time! I will begin January 14th at USC, the college I have been attending since I graduated high school. I have received my schedule and would like some input about what to expect in the first semester!

As far as the integrated nursing practium which is my first practium. I have it on Wed & Fri from 630 to 1600 what type of skills and things should I expect, and does anyone have any advice on the drug competency aspect. Such as tips on learning the conversions and things, I just want to make sure I am always prepared and that I can do the best I can to pass everything!

Thanks in advance for all the comments! :)

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I'm @ sacramento city college.. going into 3rd semester. First off congratulations! I know you are super excited! I can't speak directly for USC but our first semester learning objectives were NA type things.. vitals, changing linens, correct washing of hands... other skills more RN oriented were injections, med dispense, Foley catheter, physical assessment. .. you'll learn the nursing process and start to critically think about nursing diagnosis based off your assessment and the interventions needed to meet your goals.

As far as meds: I ALWAYS start with Dr. DOSE.. example...

250mg/doseX1tab/125mg (on hand @ med station)= 2tab/dose... dimensional analysis is what works for me but your school should have a lecture on all different methods!

Hope that helped and good luck!

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O yes forget to add.. get a NCLEX review book... I got Saunders comprehensive review.. it will help you understand question styles and how to answer them... first semester was hard for me and I passed with 78% but 2nd passed with 86% and I really think learning how to answer the questions helped!

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Specializes in Critical Care.

Thank you BnEmamas! Yes I'm excited. I figured it would be more vitals, hand washing techniques, and things like that to being with. I just want to be prepared and offset some of the nervousness haha if possible! Yes as far as NCLEX I have been told to buy a book! I am purchasing the Saunders Comprehensive Review 5th Edition from Amazon to study along with my books for class. Thanks again for the input, good luck to you in your nursing career!

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Congrats. My school starts 1/6

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Specializes in Critical Care.

Awesome! Congrats to you. Also any advice on the NLN PAX? I take it on Jan 6th

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