I'm failing anatomy!

Nursing Students Pre-Nursing

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I know people say that this was their hardest class to take but I don't think this is my issue. My focus is so off and plus I freeze up when it's time to take my tests! Oh well, I will take this a learning experience and a trial run. Trying to stay positive! Always next semester!

Since you plan on retaking the course anyway, could you still drop and receive a W? Although most programs look down on getting W's, it is better than getting an F in the long run. Just a thought.

I am so sorry to hear this, I absolutely loved A&P. I had a great professor but most of all I made some really good friends. Our class had several different groups that broke into regular study groups. I would say that is probably the best advice to give you, to find someone or a small group of people to study with.

I couldn't go to open lab because of schedule conflicts with work, however, I discovered that my school library had the various bone boxes and muscle figures available for check out for an hour or two. I would go to the library, check out one thing at a time, say it, write it, spell it, etc. OVER AND OVER AGAIN. I also used apps on my phone and virtual diagrams online. The best website was:Human Anatomy and Physiology | Human Anatomy - GetBodySmart

Anatomy is all repetition and honestly, the professor does make a difference. Had to withdraw my first time due to such horrific grades but my 2nd try, I got a B and I give credit to my professor. He made a world of difference. My biggest tip and I do wish I did this sooner in the semester, Google blank diagrams of everything you need to know and print them out. Fill them in 1-2x per day every single day until the exam. It makes the exams seem like what you've been doing on your own. I also really liked Saunders flash cards for both anatomy and physio. They had everything my professor tested on for lab exams including additional information regarding structure and function that was necessary for lecture exams.

I could withdraw but tomorrow is the last day. And my school will actually replace the grade you failed in if you retake it.

Is there any time whatsoever to bring your grade up? And what is the best you could do [realistically]? I know at some schools, they will only replace D or F, I know some nursing programs will take your first attempt if its anything above a C, even if you repeated and earned an A, so the repeat was for naught.

I found it was somewhat beneficial(for me) to stay in until the last minute so I know what to expect of some classes but still drop because if I was getting Ds and Fs on exams, it just wasn't realistic for me to expect myself to get As on the remaining exams to bring up my grade. Do what's best for you. If you do think you can really apply yourself and completely turn it around, take the chance. If you're even hesitant, I would suggest dropping and retaking since you now know what to expect and it'll erase the W when you retake (and kill) it.

I think if you have a chance to withdraw then you should instead of taking a F.

Have you been tested for test anxiety? I know I used to get anxious before tests and what helped me was those meditation videos for relaxation on YouTube and deep breathing.

Also, what kind of learner are you? Once you find this out, find study guides like Mosbys Anatomy and Physiology Coloring Book, for example, that will enhance your studying.

Specializes in Skilled Rehab Nurse.

Have you checked out the videos at the Khan Academy website? Some of those were very helpful to me.

Specializes in ICU.

Anatomy is hard, and I will give it that. Honestly, it is dumb to compare them. Anatomy is a "base" and only class, nursing school is an experience. (Lol)

Also, I don't know how your school does it, but I took A&P separately and I feel there is a much bigger focus on the physiology aspect of it once you hit nursing school. (At least so far.)

Specializes in Nephrology Home Therapies, Wound Care, Foot Care..

Here is a great, free online series that may help you get back on track - free on you tube[h=1]General Human Anatomy[/h]UC Berkeley Course , Prof. Marian C. DIAMOND

Blood Vascular System I Video Lecture, UC Berkeley

Do not give up!

I had a friend in a similar situation and she kept pushing and striving for the end goal. You have to remember this is only the beginning and anatomy and physiology is hard without a doubt but hard work shows and perseveres.

First, find a quiet and serene place to study and focus. I never studied at home. Choose somewhere where attempting to be casual or comfortable is not an option. I ventured and studied at the Starbucks down the street and now I work there coincidentally. Also try your school or local library.

Second, stay off social media and your phone. I don't know if you use these sources but it can distract and keep you sidetracked from your studies and focus. Put your phone in your bag, put it under a bunch of stuff that way it is hard to reach, anything that stop you from attempting to use it for unnecessary reasons.

Third, connect with your classmates and find a study group. I cannot tell you how much it will you when you have more than one mind working at once. You can learn from each other and build on each other's weaknesses and strengths.

Lastly, staying organized is important. Schedule out your life accordingly as it will help you keep you sane and less stressed. You will feel better when you know certain dates and time frames for assignments, tests and projects.

A couple of people have mentioned getting flash cards from other sources like quizlet, I personally really recomend making your own. I know sometimes as I am talking to myself about the material for the flash cards I will come up with a quarky way to remember something. The act of writing is also supposed to be really good. Also try to incorporate untraditional clues if it helps. If you can go over it so many times that you have amazing recall it might help with the freezing up.

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