Kickin' it Back, Old School

jadelpn, LPN, EMT-B

Each class should have for it a textbook, a highlighter, a pen, pencil and notebook. Index cards can come later during homework. When studying, look at the objectives of the chapter. Look at the vocabulary. Pick 3 bright neon index card colors (card stock 3x5 can be used for this) One is for medications, one is for vocabulary words, one for lab values--these will be consistent throughout your education, adding as needed.

Make a card for each vocabulary word. Make a card for each medication that is mentioned in the chapter. Make a card for nursing diagnosis, make a card for major disease processes. You can and should have a medication book and a lab value book--important additions to your book purchases. Add to this a nursing diagnosis book.

Now that you are reading the objectives to the chapter, read and highlight the "answers" to the objectives. Use your highlighter. At the end of the chapter, there is a list of key points. Write them in your own words in your notebook. Now you are prepared for class.

In class, take notes. Star (*) the points that relate to the chapter summary. After reading, writing and reviewing, your brain begins to form a picture. Use plain white index cards for your nursing care plan diagnosis, interventions, goals.

Once this is done, you will have information at hand to study for tests, to create power points, to start an outline for a paper.

Make sure that all of your index cards are in alphabetical order by category in your box. The box is labeled.

Make sure that all important dates are in your planner. Organize your accordion folder one slot per class. This will help you to put handouts in the folder, be able to find them once you start doing homework, and a place to put your completed homework as to not have a bunch of binders. The accordion folder comes to each class with you, as does the planner.

And a word about the planner. When class begins and you get a synopsis of what you are going to be doing and learning, put appropriate dates in right away. Be mindful of those dates. If you are creating cards or find a particularly interesting part of your text/notes that can help with a paper or power point going forward, then post-it, pencil in notes on the post it ("good subject for power point!")

And finally, to get into the groove of nursing diagnosis--You can do cards in relation to the disease process. You can do cards related to discharge planning. Alteration of health care maintenance, then a diagnosis specific plan of care.

This may seem overwhelming and very old school. However, with the discouragement of smart phones in facilities, and in some classrooms, attempting to find your work to turn it in, all those things turn into more stress than necessary. And remember, once you have a card, you have it. Right where you need it. Most can be used for multiple classes. You can micro-organize however you see fit. Vocabulary, lab values, diagnosis and care plans as well as disease process doesn't change when your class does--these are a reference library you can use going forward. And I can't tell you what a relief it is to just grab cards for your clinicals, review them and be prepared--these are reference cards you have used for a couple years--you know this stuff! WOO HOO!!

Take some time for you. Whether that means a hot shower with your favorite body wash, opening up the window with some fresh air and a coffee drink or tea, whether it is an hour nap to recharge, do it. I am also a huge fan of trashy magazines and some hot chocolate or a brisk walk around campus with a friend.

Best wishes in your academic career. You got this!!

Kickin' it Back, Old School

About jadelpn, LPN, EMT-B

More Like This