How to become engaged in nursing

[3babies]

Hello, I am going into my third semester of LPN school and I kind of feel like there should be something more I should be doing as far as learning how to critically think and put together the big picture. I need some advice from some experienced nurses on how to go about self learning and critical thinking. Sometimes I hear nurses say they wish they could go back to clinicals and take advantage of the learning environment but I'm a little lost as to how to get started/find my way of "getting it". Please help as I would like to become a good nurse instead of just another nurse passing meds.

Thanks

[pharmgirl]

Although I'm not an experienced nurse, one of the things that might help is what our instructor told us. She told us that this is the time to learn, so if you don't know something speak up and she will make sure we get the opportunity to do it. I know its hard to jump right in when you aren't familiar with it but better to do it now under supervision then when you are "thrown to the wolves" at graduation.

With my clinical group we have come up with a system. By the time someone says "3, 2, 1 MINE", if someone hasn't volunteered, I'm doing it. Volunteer for anything and everything. Once your clinical instructor sees how you are willing to do whatever, she will eventually PICK you to do stuff. I know this is hard, but this is the time and place to learn. The only stupid question is the one not asked.

Good Luck to you and I hope this helps.

[nursin_is_4me]

I'm not sure.

[ellakate]

Just keep reading this website. Focus on reading questions that help new nurses.