5 months to prep for ABSN

CuriousMe · Dec 21, 2009

I would focus on your home life right now and make sure that you had everything in order (whatever that means for you). That alone can lighten your stress load down the road.

Other than that, I'd make sure that your A&P was still pretty fresh in your head ....so, maybe brush up on any body systems you feel you're not as strong as you'd like to be.

kanders10 · Dec 30, 2009

I was also just accepted into an absn may 2010, so congrats! First semester two of the classes we take are pharmacology and pathophysiology, so i bought flashcards for each from barnes & noble to study at my own leisure before classes start..that way i'm familiar with the material in at least 2 of the classes. definitely focus on your home life, but maybe get some study material to stay ahead of the gang :) good luck!

GoalsInTransition · Dec 30, 2009

Congrats to you, too!

I just received my Pharm flashcards in the mail, so I am getting into those. Other students have mentioned the importance of understanding fluid and electrolyte balance-- which we really skimmed over in my A & P-- so I'll check that out, too.

I'm all ready missing my son, who is almost 4, and who frequently tells me that I need to work and go to school less! :-)

Thanks for your tips, and best of luck in your program!

Stacy

GypsyGirlZofie · Jan 11, 2010

I was also accepted to an ABSN program beginning this summer. Right now, I am just getting "home" in order. I am resisting the urge to buy a million prep books. I going to review A&P.

Can I ask what schools you guys will be attending?

GoalsInTransition · Jan 11, 2010

I'm going to Johns Hopkins... and I confess that I was rather surprised to have been accepted there, so I am rather anxious to prove to myself that I really deserve to be there.

I did buy a couple of things- some pharmacology flash cards and such, but haven't had much time for them yet. Once my accelerated Micro course is over, though, I do plan to do some A & P review and to start perusing the drugs.

As for home stuff, I have been cleaning out closets- mainly because we'll be moving from NYC to Baltimore in May and I don't want to pack it all up if we can downsize a bit. :-)

I'm also trying to spend extra time with my son (almost 4), since I know he'll be sacrificing some Mommy time once my program begins. :-(

wife&mommyRN · Jan 11, 2010

hello & congrats to u all :yeah:i def know the feeling and excitement. i am starting my last semester of an absn and boy what a long, but short journey. i am also a mom & wife, and yes u will be of few. know that this is a very tough program that takes alot of sacrifices, make sure your family is prepared and understands that u won't be around much. i know it's easier said than done. by u being a wife and mother, it's going to be much harder for you. remember the competition is over, there is no need to show off to your classmates/ professors, that may make u a target (in my program it would). set aside the competative nature and embrace teamwork because like it or not those people will be your family for the next year whether u love or hate them, u will work with them and u will need them. don't try to make any enemies, and honestly don't set out to make friends either that will come naturally, but in all reality that isn't what u are there for. don't be so caught up on grades either, because that isn't what defines u in nursing school. your program may be different, but by you being a mom and wife, majority of your classmates won't be able to relate to you on a personal level. unless of course you have a mature group of students/ you are into partying and drinking all the time. use this time for family time, cherish it because it's going to be a distant memory soon. strengthen your bond with your husband and develop a system to hold your family together. try to save as much as you can financially and just relax. nursing school is all about survival, absn programs are much more complex. this site will teach you to survive in nursing school, use it! i have had a wonderful experience aside from the general hell of the program, because i followed everyone's advice and listened to their experiences and mistakes. it's amazing but no matter what state u r in, every nursing program seems pretty much the same. your program is a unique one within itself because it's fast paced and requires a certain type of person to survive it. you will be fine and good luck, always remember it's almost over

wife&mommyRN · Jan 11, 2010

BTW, If u are not taking any classes currently, DON"T STUDY ANYTHING! That's a huge mistake. They are going to teach u everything u need to learn & the way they want u to learn it (somewhat). Go in with an open and clear mind, because they are going to fill it up quick. Invest in some good nclex books in the begining and use it through your entire program, but not until it starts. You have 5 months, enjoy your family life. You will have a year to dedicate to school.

kanders10 · Jan 12, 2010

Gypsy, I got into the University of Miami ABSN, super pumped! What about you??

GypsyGirlZofie · Jan 12, 2010

I'm headed to Emory. I'm super excited too, Ksanders!