How to deal with those who don't understand the nursing world?

[Hellostudentnurssee]

I'm 26, I graduated from the LPN program almost 2 years ago. I was in meetings with the director in my last quarter with the director to get information about our school's bridge program. At that time, their bridge program was still in the process. 3 months after graduation, that director was fired and a new one was appointed, which further delayed the bridge program. It wasn't until spring of this year was when I got the word from the director and we've been having meetings with the application process. It's not really a bridge program but available spots for starting with the 4th quarter RN program. It's a WHOLE other process of pre-req classes, TEAS... I don't agree with it but I'm sucking it up and doing what I have to do.

I come from a cultural family that just cares about "finishing school" and no one understands how hard it is or how this whole nursing school process works. Nothing is ever guaranteed and the rules-requirements are always changing. No one understands the nursing world unless they're a nurse or a nursing student. My boyfriend is an engineer and just finished with his program. He's trying his best to understand it but to be honest, he doesn't. I feel like he's frustrated bc he doesn't get it and feels like he's not helping. (You know guys - they like to fix problems in a tangible way whereas women just need to be listened to, supported). He's getting a bit impatient and is just as frustrated with me. He obviously doesn't want to see me give up but doesn't want to see me waste my time waiting until nursing schools call me back. His whole family doesn't get it and I don't expect them too but their ignorance and eagerness for me to be "done" is frustrating. I'm already frustrated as it is but it's even more frustrating when people think it's an easy application process. Think ITALIAN family where everyone knows your business and will use it as discussion topics with other family members. I come from a small, private family so I'm not used to it. Anyhoo, I've been having meetings with the director with 2 other classmates on the application process. I'm re-taking one more class, taking the TEAS. We get an additional 15 points for having our LPN license and I don't have that... I took it twice and didn't make it and am just so burned by that... I'm still studying for it but we'll see...I just need encouragement from this community. This would help me very much. Thank you :)

PS: Also, my classmates always tell me, "you're still so long. You have plenty of time". in comparison to them, "yes, i am young" but I don't want to wait forever to be in school, you know? I am an adult, I need to be work, be responsible for myself. There's bills to pay. Going to school isn't a luxury for me.

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

Don't waste a lot of time trying to educate 'outsiders' about our (Nursing) world. It will only frustrate you and probably irritate them because a lot of our 'stuff' just won't make sense to them. Heck, sometimes it doesn't make sense to US, right?? For the most part, you can just let them know that there are a lot of rules and you have to follow them. It is a bit concerning that you have been unable to pass your NCLEX-PN. I would advise you to tackle that first - before moving ahead with your RN.

You may have already realized that you're actually becoming part of a new culture... Nursing. We have our own rituals, ceremonies, practices, etc. If this interests you, Peg Neuhauser has written several books about work 'tribes' that you may enjoy.

[Jennifer Campbell]

Some people just aren't natural test takers. But you can learn how to be a better test taker. There are probably some courses about test taking that you can take. Also, those great big practice exams for the NCLEX were really helpful to me. Carve out study time, just like you would carve out time to eat or sleep or pee. Make it a predictable habit of your day. Study things that need to be studied, because we tend to put the hard stuff off and review the stuff we already know. Find a study partner who will be helpful, not distracting. Or find an accountability partner who will call you at the start of your "study time" and say "Are you studying yet? Good luck!" My hubby needed to take his CPA exam several times. But it was worth it. He has always had a steady, high paying job. When you become a nurse, you will think all of this was worth it, too. It's a good job. You will help a lot of people before you leave this earth. And you'll pay your bills, too. :) Good luck! You can do it!!

[aramis2121]

This bouncing back and forth from your school seems unprofessional. Have you considered another option concerning the program? Also studying is a difficult word to process sometimes. It's not just opening the book for a while and hoping you remember what you read; it's about understanding it which is where it gets tricky. It used to take me a couple of tries and a few you tube videos to REALLY understand the content. Supplement your studies with other forms of learning maybe an audio book or a you tube explanation can really help you on your path to success! Good Luck! Never give up!