LPN New Student Tips/Advice??

Ilargia99, LVN, RN · Jul 19, 2017

Hey there,

I'm about to start my last semester of an 18 month long program. I don't know how other programs work but in most you really hit the ground running. Things take off very fast and it's easy to get overwhelmed in the beginning but once you start clinicals things calm down a bit.

In my program the first 6 weeks were a skills "boot camp." We were there 5 days a week full time learning how to do basic skills and preparing for clinicals. There were a LOT of skills check offs during that time but it wasn't that bad. We started our rotations in the 7th week and switched to a different site every 4-6 weeks. Sites included skilled nursing and rehab, hospitals, developmental centers, etc.

Some people think the first semester is the hardest because it's an adjustment period, you have to learn how to think like a nurse, and learn so many new skills in a short period of time but I really enjoyed it. It wasn't very difficult in my opinion.

Some things I'd suggest are really studying pharmacology, brush up on A&P, make sure you know the vocabulary words, keep track of your skills lab items (keep them in the trunk of your car is possible), buy lots of highlighters in various colors, try to do as much of the reading as you can so you're not totally lost during lecture, don't over-think test questions, and take notes during lecture and then make them more detailed later. Don't get behind on homework! Things go so fast so make sure to stay on top of things.

We have multiple tests every week and exams every couple of weeks and it does take some getting used to but once you do you'll be just fine. Honestly, it's a lot of work but it's totally doable and definitely not as horrible as some people make it out to be. All of our instructors have been awesome and really care about us succeeding on our journey to become nurses. I love it.

Oh, one last thing I forgot to mention... In such a big group made up of mostly females there tends to be a lot of drama- don't get caught up in it, it'll only make things uncomfortable for you. Focus on your studies instead.

Good luck, I'm sure you'll do great!

Ajasminex3 · Jul 19, 2017

Thank you , I will keep everything you mentioned in mind and enjoy your last semester , you're almost to the finish line. Congrats :)

AliceB · Jul 21, 2017

Hey there,
I'm about to start my last semester of an 18 month long program. I don't know how other programs work but in most you really hit the ground running. Things take off very fast and it's easy to get overwhelmed in the beginning but once you start clinicals things calm down a bit.
In my program the first 6 weeks were a skills "boot camp." We were there 5 days a week full time learning how to do basic skills and preparing for clinicals. There were a LOT of skills check offs during that time but it wasn't that bad. We started our rotations in the 7th week and switched to a different site every 4-6 weeks. Sites included skilled nursing and rehab, hospitals, developmental centers, etc.
Some people think the first semester is the hardest because it's an adjustment period, you have to learn how to think like a nurse, and learn so many new skills in a short period of time but I really enjoyed it. It wasn't very difficult in my opinion.
Some things I'd suggest are really studying pharmacology, brush up on A&P, make sure you know the vocabulary words, keep track of your skills lab items (keep them in the trunk of your car is possible), buy lots of highlighters in various colors, try to do as much of the reading as you can so you're not totally lost during lecture, don't over-think test questions, and take notes during lecture and then make them more detailed later. Don't get behind on homework! Things go so fast so make sure to stay on top of things.
We have multiple tests every week and exams every couple of weeks and it does take some getting used to but once you do you'll be just fine. Honestly, it's a lot of work but it's totally doable and definitely not as horrible as some people make it out to be. All of our instructors have been awesome and really care about us succeeding on our journey to become nurses. I love it.
Oh, one last thing I forgot to mention... In such a big group made up of mostly females there tends to be a lot of drama- don't get caught up in it, it'll only make things uncomfortable for you. Focus on your studies instead.
Good luck, I'm sure you'll do great!

Excellent advice and insight! Thank you so much!!

Ilargia99, LVN, RN · Jul 21, 2017

No problem. If you need anything else feel free to ask anytime. Good luck!

Natasha A., CNA, LVN · Jul 26, 2017

Congratulations!!!

I highly recommend you focus on learning for the sake of learning. One way to stay motivated is to make it personal. How would you want a nurse to treat your mother? When you want to stay motivated on a global perspective research the many misdiagnosis statistics and # of deaths that occur due to lack of knowledge.

Also, try to leave the ego, bias, stereotypes, prejudgments, assumptions all at the door. You want to come in with a willingness to learn, open mind, make mistakes, and pick yourself back up again. When do not know the answer try to find someone you can ask to get the information. The biggest tip is time management and learn to adapt

Ajasminex3 · Jul 26, 2017

Congratulations!!!
I highly recommend you focus on learning for the sake of learning. One way to stay motivated is to make it personal. How would you want a nurse to treat your mother? When you want to stay motivated on a global perspective research the many misdiagnosis statistics and # of deaths that occur due to lack of knowledge.
Also, try to leave the ego, bias, stereotypes, prejudgments, assumptions all at the door. You want to come in with a willingness to learn, open mind, make mistakes, and pick yourself back up again. When do not know the answer try to find someone you can ask to get the information. The biggest tip is time management and learn to adapt

Thank you for the advice :) I will use your words to keep myself motivated and on track.