Help! How to keep up!

[mamaames]

Hi,

So I'm a new grad in Oakand, having a hard time getting my first job - like many of us out there - and I'm wondering if there is any advice out there for how to keep up on my "nursing knowledge". It's been 4 months since I've been in a hospital (last two classes were online) and I'm afraid of forgetting everything! I was planning on just reading my books again while I am applying for jobs, but thought maybe there were some better ideas out there. Or any other reading material that would be good for "keeping up"?

Thanks a lot,

Amy

[RedhairedNurse, BSN, RN]

I honestly don't think you'll forget anything that you learned in school, although I guess it's possible. It's easy to lose certain skills, but if you haven't worked at all yet, I doubt that will happen either. In my opinion, my nursing knowledge began when I actually became a nurse. I mean, school layed the foundation of nursing, taught the disease process and all, but actual nursing came with hands on, not book stuff. Take care and keep banging on those nurse recruitment doors, be very assertive and you will get a job.

Reading some threads here will help a lot with different areas of nursing. Is there anything in particular that you are afraid you will forget? I have forgotten certain things before, and have recalled quite a bit of information just reading the threads here on allnurses.

Good luck.

[nminodob]

I agree with RedHairedNurse - reading threads, then going to google for background on stuff you are a bit hazy on, always helps me. I just started working my new job after a 4 month job search, and while unemployed I have tried to take a peek every day into my old textbooks and notes to refresh myself about hormones, drugs, normal values, etc. But don't torture yourself - many of these things will be made clear when you are working with them daily, and others may be info that you will never use for a long while, if ever.

Another thing I keep in mind: nursing is a labor-intensive field. So get out your bike, take hikes, or hit the gym/yoga, whatever you do to feel energized and strong. Being healthy will make all of this so much easier for you, and is just plain smart!

[mamaames]

Thanks for the thoughts. Both postings are much appreciated! I have definitely been trying to read a "little" each day in my texts, and am exercising, so that's good. Now for the job!!!!!