My Grades Make Me Feel Sick.

[ShadowsGirl101, ADN, BSN, LPN, RN]

So I though I was doing well in Nursing. Turns out; not so hot. My last two tests have annihilated me spiritually and mentally. I feel like this is a good place to ask for some advice on how to overcome this. So first off I need an 80 to pass Nur 101. Since my recent test absolutely destroyed me and about 75% of my class my average went down from a 78.87% to a 74%. We have a total of seven tests and a final that counts 20%. I have taken three tests so far and I cannot help but freak out and think I am going to fail Nur 101.

Here are some secondary factors. I have your stereotypical psycho father who wants nothing more in the world for his daughter to succeed. I get that. Its just he goes about it in all the wrong ways. I fear that if I do bring him a grade it will not be satisfactory. (It usually isn't.) which has caused me t develop this serve anxiety. Once he asked me for the password to my CC (Where my grades, shared files, etc are held) and I nearly fainted. I had to lay down, I felt so weak and sick. I consulted our returning 101 students. They tell me I will be fine but I cannot help but think I wont. I guess I just need some beta-blockers and caffeine or a new brain because I legit feel stupid.

[WaitingonMyMoment]

First of all, I think you should be more confident in your own abilities. Use your grades and current study habits as stepping stones. You have to reevaluate your situation...ask yourself "What am I doing wrong"? For me, we have to make at least a 78 on all exams and have a 78 overall average in the class. After every test, students who don't achieve a 78 or higher have to meet with the instructor to discuss current study habits and the rationales for all the questions missed. I said that to say that you should make an appointment to meet with your instructor to see the types of questions you miss or have trouble with. Start practicing NCLEX style questions in a review book for the subject hand and maybe you should try to get in a study group as well. Also, read each chapter after your teacher lectures on it to get a better understanding of the information. You will be fine. Start thinking positive and your attitude and grades will reflect. Good luck and I wish you nothing but the best!

[LadyFree28, BSN, LPN, RN]

First of all I think you should be more confident in your own abilities. Use your grades and current study habits as stepping stones. You have to reevaluate your situation...ask yourself "What am I doing wrong"? For me, we have to make at least a 78 on all exams and have a 78 overall average in the class. After every test, students who don't achieve a 78 or higher have to meet with the instructor to discuss current study habits and the rationales for all the questions missed. I said that to say that you should make an appointment to meet with your instructor to see the types of questions you miss or have trouble with. Start practicing NCLEX style questions in a review book for the subject hand and maybe you should try to get in a study group as well. Also, read each chapter after your teacher lectures on it to get a better understanding of the information. You will be fine. Start thinking positive and your attitude and grades will reflect. Good luck and I wish you nothing but the best! [/quote']

I agree.

I would like to add that this is a perfect time to get a "Success Series" book; they have books that help you study; from Fundamentals, to Pharmacology, to Med-Surg...they are great in reviewing questions and rationales to questions, to help you study and be prepared for your exams. They are available on Amazon.

One trick that helped me in understanding the information and doing well on my tests were to handle the information "like a nurse"; I used the nursing process in terms of Assessment, Identification (NANDA diagnoses), Interventions (listed nursing actions, anticipated diagnostic testing that a nurse needed to be prepared for) and Evaluation (the responses based on objective and subjective information). Between organizing the information in that way, knowing peri it ER diagnostics and other background information- the objectives, tables and figures are great ways to focus and understand the information in large chapters, using the nursing process; utilizing the Success Series and seeking out my instructors by email or office hours, it helped me tremendously.

I would also suggest to you to tell your father to dial it down a bit in a loving way; that may be a HUGE factor in contributing to your feelings. You have a right to handle this without his involvement; you are in nursing school where the expectation is to step into the shoes of a professional, and be able to problem solve and ask for help; just let home know that if any issue arise. :)

I think as soon as you correct whatever is alining you; you will be able to pass this semester and the rest of nursing school; do it with the guidance of your instructors; they have been there before; and want you to succeed.

[randill8084]

Try to figure out study habits techniques that work for you.

[Athariel]

Does your dad pay for school?

If not, you are an adult and this doesn't concern him. I know that is easier said than done but part of growing up with some parents is getting them to recognize that you aren't their belonging to mold as they see fit beyond a point. If he does, then I would suggest getting with financial aid. Also, is nursing something you want to do or did he push for it? I sit near a girl who's family pushed her towards nursing and she is struggling because she doesn't have a passion for it.

[allycat77, BSN, RN]

1st hugs to you. I have been there (sometimes still am) with there with the anxiety. Talk to your dad and let him know it is affecting you. I'm thinking you might have a lot of this on your mind while you are taking your tests (you may not even realize it.) then look into studying with classmates. Some students really swear by the teach-back method. Good luck!