I Have No Memory Recall!!!!

jpeters84 · Feb 21, 2009

I call this phenomenon the nursing "brain fog." It's like we're trying to cram so much in that even the smallest of things are hard to remember. I struggle with this too and find it embaressing or upsetting at times. I just have to have faith that when I'm done with the pressure-cooker that is nursing school and I'm not reading and processing thousands of bits of information a week that this won't occur. I had a very intense pharmacology class 3 semesters ago and it seems that I haven't retained much of that information. Same with my math for meds class. If I had a dime for everytime I have had to relearn things...hello Kreb cycle!

The thing of it is is that in reality we can only retain so much but when we're out practicing as RNs we'll see the same drugs over and over and do the same procedures so we'll gain familiarity and retain what's really important that way. I try not to worry too much about it, and just do my best, and have faith that the things that I really need to know will stick.

In the meantime for things like the NCLEX practice makes perfect and just keep taking practice tests over and over again and on the concepts you're really not learning break them down step by step onto index cards, bring those index cards everywhere you go, make up stupid names for things to help you remember, and just do your cards over and over. Good luck and don't sress too much because high stress just makes it worse...easier said then done, I know, but I'm sure you'll do great.

coolpeach · Feb 21, 2009

I've been having the same problem, and I thought it was just me. I can't remember anything. And I am very absent minded and flaky a good deal of the time. The other day one of my classmates and I got in the elevator, and stood there talking for 3 minutes before we realized we hadn't pushed any buttons. I searched all over the COPY MACHINE for a good five minutes looking for the printer address. I am having a really difficult time with vocabulary recall where you have the world right on the tip of your tongue. The other day I was holding a paper clip, and for the life of me couldn't remember the name of the dang thing. Spelling has also gone out the window. I was wondering if it was very early onset alzhiemers, a brain tumor, or intense nursing school stress. If you figure it out let me know.

Nursey103, ADN, RN · Feb 21, 2009

I'm an A student and I have the same problem as well!!!!! It's soooo frustrating - but like someone above said....once we're in the real world, we'll be doing the same things over and over and everything will become routine. Also....taking on challenging patients during clinical also seems to help me with meds, diseases....actually applying skills and doing care plans (I know....yuck) all the time does help me remember certain things...

Don't give up.....good luck!!!

WhoNeedsaShot? · Feb 21, 2009

My instructors refer to it as "CRAM & DUMP SYNDROME" They assure me that it is universal and harmless..... Everything comes full circle in the end and they have a 98% NCLEX pass rate.... So with fingers crossed and books opened, I just keep taking one test at a time.......

Bea1128 · Feb 21, 2009

I find myself having the same problem, but mine is usually with the more mundane things like the paperclip and the elevator thing. :) Or if I read in the textbook the night before and I get asked a question, I know I've read it, but can't recall the answer. It's so frustrating because I know it's in there somewhere! It's also scary because I'm terrified I'm going to forget something important like picking up my kids or something. There are some days I feel like I'm just barely functioning.

I think it's partially stress, but I believe the biggest problem is just plain old exhaustion. I'm juggling a family and nursing school so sleep and rest have pretty much suffered the most. I also promised myself that exercise wouldn't go by the wayside. Guess what was the first thing to go? I've got to try to lead a more balanced life because right now I eat, sleep, breath nursing school. I'm just glad to know I'm not the only one! :)

bigsurgirl · Feb 21, 2009

RELAX!!! I am in the same boat as you. 46 yo. Hard to remember stuff right now. I have tried to learn conceptually throughout nursing school to really understand what is going on in patho because i don't memorize anything. I feel the same way because school is almost over and there is alot to balance now. I am doing the same thing you are and I am trying to relaz and have confidence in my skills. I have my clipboard to take notes so i don't have to memorize stuff, its all right there. I try to delegate effectively, prioritize my care, and count on my clipboard for my info. Good luck.

2bRCRN2008 · Feb 21, 2009

I take adderall. I struggled my first semester, but I went and saw my Dr. and we talked about my lack of focus and memory. My grades have improved and I retain the material much better now.

fragino · Feb 21, 2009

We older guys have to compensate. Repetition and practice. Practice and repetition. Yes we did the same thing when we were younger, but now we have to do it more often. While our brains have become more efficient in processing information that we know, we have a harder time getting that information to stick in the brain in the first place.

Think of it as muscle memory. You're usually pretty good at a physical skill because you've practiced it over and over and don't even have to think about what you're doing.

ViolettaCCU, MSN · Feb 22, 2009

I've been taking ginko biloba and vitamin B-12 - they seem to help. Oh yeah - and a little anti-anxiety med, too! It really helps - the pressure isn't so intense and feel like I have more room in my brain!

:uhoh3:

SnowRain7489 · Feb 23, 2009

I am 24 and have that same problem - cure is REPITITION, REPITITION, REPITITION, I have heard that if you say things 6 times then you will remember it. Sure it might take you longer to study than other students, but who cares - if it makes you do well in the class, take the time to study, just don't share that information with them and u won't feel bad.

malex107, LPN · Apr 27, 2009

Can someon help me with the pathophysiology of brain cancer