My first month

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Well I'm finishing up the first month of my LPN program this week. So far it's been a great learning experience, albeit a little nerve-racking at times especially since I haven't really had any medical experience prior to this.

I wasn't quite sure what to expect at first, and I remember how nervous I was coming in to our orientation. That nervousness was completely eclipsed by how nervous I was for my first lab demonstration and my first exam. I'm sure I'll be saying the same thing when I get to go to my first clinical.

I do feel like I'm starting to get into a pattern now, but at the same time I know I'm just in my first month and I'm sure things are going to get shaken up soon.

I do have to say though that one thing that has been helping me out immensely is my very supportive wife. I don't think she'll see this post, but I hope she knows how much she means to me and what an encouragement she has been in my recent career changing decisions. I doubt I could accomplish any of this without her.

All being said though, I've been really enjoying my schooling thus far. Not only do I enjoy what I'm learning, I'm excited about what is ahead for me in the future, both in the program and beyond.

If you have a minute, I would love to hear your suggestions or any tips that helped out during your programs, whether you're still in them or you've already finished.

I've always loved perusing the boards here at allnurses as they've been so helpful and encouraging. I look forward to hearing back from the community that I'm working to be a part of!

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Glad you are enjoying your first month of your LPN program. I can remember back to my first month I was nervous and I was all over the place with lectures and leading into clinicals. However, I settled down and got used to everything and followed a routine. There were some bumps along the road but I made it through and eventually graduated a couple weeks ago. I don't regret going through the program one bit.

For suggestions, I suggest to take things in day by day meaning, that don't try to overthink things too much and just go with your best effort on each lab demonstration and/or each exam. When in doubt, always ask questions if you don't understand something. I would purchase a NCLEX PN Review book because it contains content that you can benefit from during lectures.

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So glad to hear your journey is going well so far. I am just starting my prereqs for an LPN program near me. I have an extensive medical background but I am looking forward to this nursing role. Good luck to you!

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Thanks for your suggestions, I really appreciate it. I've already been practicing NCLEX PN questions and reviewing material for it.

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I've literally have 4 weeks left of LPN school. I'm not trying to discourage but encourage anyone who's reading this. I started January 6, 2016 it started off fast paced, intense, and tough. In the summer of 2016, I failed adult Med Serge. While taking Mental and Maternal with clinical and theory. I was very discourage. I don't know if all schools apply, but I had only one attempt to fail, no other options. With God and an awesome support system, I didn't give up I continued into fall semester passing with B in Med Serge. I say that because it was a breeze all of the material was clear and comprehending. January 2017 I started my Spring semester. During spring break I've been keeping myself ahead of the game. Rewinding back a little I completed my clinicals a month early by sacrificing to do 24 hours a week instead of 12 by asking my clinical instructor to do this. (it's good to communicate with your teachers and clinical instructor). I literally have 4 weeks left of school reality is setting in and I'm leaning and depending on God to get me through this. Phillipians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. This is my motto. Nursing school is not easy but stay focused, dodge negativity, and surround yourself with others in positivity. You will make friends and it's good to. You all will need each other (trust me). I'm praying for all of you. Step out on faith. I pray God give you favor with whoever you encounter with on this journey. You will pass, you will succeed, you will become a nurse!

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Thanks for the response and encouragement! My program is like that as well. You are only allowed to fail a course one time, if you fail again you're out of the program.

I just finished up another exam and lab for fundamentals today. I'm definitely enjoying it, and getting to know some of the other students is helping a lot. Especially since I have no previous health care experience I've been relying on several of them to give me tips that will help out with patient interaction.

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Hi dbuy3 I had seen on another post that you had taken Biology at New Mexico Junior College.. I'm currently taking Biology online at New Mexico Junior College and I was wondering if you can give me some insite what to study. I feel like most of the questions will be from the past tests on the lab and lecture but I want to do well and the study guide she gives you is ridiculous, like waaaay to much to remember. Thanks so much for your help.

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Sorry for the late reply, ever since clinicals have started it's been very busy. From what I remember I just made sure to read the assigned areas of the textbook thoroughly.

The other thing is that when I took the class there were two different professors offering it. I don't know which one that you have (or if both are still teaching there for that matter) but If I recall correctly they have vastly different teaching methods.

When I took A&P there the professor for that class (who also teaches BIO) likes to give you tons of assignments, and it can feel a little overwhelming at times. The teacher I had for BIO was not like this and was very easy going. I think the best suggestion that I can give you is to make sure and communicate often with your professor and let them know how you're doing and if they have any suggestions for you.

I hope this helps a little bit.

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Hey, I just finished my first semester of my LPN school and it was good. It was very first paced but not too hard. Having 3 kids, a husband and a mom at home on top of going to school was the rough part,but I kept a positive mindset to ouch me. What also helped was that I have met a few friends at school and we encourage each other every day. A few tips that I think is helpful is when you have an assignment due try do it as soon as possible even if it's not due until a week from the date you got it. Stay away from negativity and have faith in yourself.

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Hey, I just finished my first semester of my LPN school and it was good. It was very first paced but not too hard. Having 3 kids, a husband and a mom at home on top of going to school was the rough part,but I kept a positive mindset to ouch me. What also helped was that I have met a few friends at school and we encourage each other every day. A few tips that I think is helpful is when you have an assignment due try do it as soon as possible even if it's not due until a week from the date you got it. Stay away from negativity and have faith in yourself.

GREAT advice! I have 3 small children as well and have always been a stay at home mom. My husband and I will be switching roles with him becoming the stay at home dad/semi-retired,(we're both 46) and I'm starting a new career. Our life should get pretty interesting! Haha!

I agree so much about the classmate support system and getting assignments done asap! Good luck in school!! Update as you go along and enjoy the experience!

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