Nervous about starting my BSN program

[Cougar12]

Hello all. Long time follower of this forum, however, first time posting. I recently accepted an offer to a BSN program in my state, and would just like some feedback on some insecurities that I am having. I will try to keep it brief.

Basically, I received a BS in Kinesiology from a University in my state about two years ago now. Graduated with a 3.2 GPA. Since graduating I have been working as a Medical Scribe (Family Practice) while taking the required pre-reqs. I have received A's in all of my pre-req courses, although they were from a community college. I was working about 50-60 hours a week while taking my pre-reqs until recently; I decided to quit my second job.

Will all of these experiences with a previous science degree, working as a medical scribe for the last year and a half, and working two jobs (time-management), benefit me while in nursing school?

I think I may just be overthinking things. I think I am worried because my first semester after transferring from community college to university I ended with a 2.1. However, after that first semester my GPA did not drop below a 3.5.

I also think I am stressed because I am almost 25, so I feel way behind having to return to school, quit my job, and take out student loans. I also tend to be a perfectionist and focus on the small details, which I use to pride myself on, but now think this may hurt me in nursing school.

Any insight or words of wisdom would be appreciated. Worrying excessively about these things has really taken away from the excitement of starting school. Thank you for taking the time to read.

[nursel56]

Hi Cougar12, welcome to allnurses!

First of all, I can assure you that you are definitely not considered too old to be a nursing student. We have nursing students posting here who are way, way older than that (talking decades here).

Your degree in kinesthesiology doubtless was heavy on anatomy and physiology, so yes-- you'll have an easier time with that than students without that knowledge base.

Your experience as a medical scribe also, in my opinion gives you several advantages. Obviously, medical terminology will not be a problem for you. I also feel that you may have gained a feel for various personalities (for good and bad) that inhabit the healthcare world, so you won't be as likely to be thrown off by prickly behavior you may encounter as a student.

I'm less inclined to think your occasional low GPA experiences are related to inability. As long as you don't pile too much on your plate at once, you should be fine. Successful time management is a huge plus as a student and as a nurse-- but that doesn't mean there isn't a limit, so I would suggest you be very aware of the fine line and hopefully eliminate whatever optional stressors you currently have in your life, if your performance in nursing school should begin to suffer.

You sound like you'll be an asset to the profession . . .all the best to you.

[JenMH88RN, BSN, RN]

25??!! Way behind??!! I was 28 when I entered into my BSN program and will be 30 when I graduate (anticipated graduation date: June 2018). Your experience with Kinesiology and being a Medical Scribe will benefit you greatly in nursing school. Understanding the anatomy of the different body systems will help you when it comes to test taking. For example:

The nurse is evaluating and assessing a patient with a diagnosis of chronic emphysema. The patient is receiving oxygen flow at a rate of 5L/min by

nasal cannula. Which finding concerns the nurse immediately?

1) Fine crackles

2) Respiratory rate of 8 breaths/min

3) The patient sitting up and leaning over the nightstand

4) A large barrel chest

Well, the answer is quite obvious (#2). Although, it might not be as obvious to someone who does not know the anatomy of the lungs or the pathophysiology of emphysema or who doesn't know the normal respiratory rate.

I also want to add that nursing tests are different from the test you took with your pre-req(s). These test require you to really....explore (for lack of a better word) your critical thinking skills. When you study, don't just memorize, try to understand what you're studying. When I'm studying, and what is written in the book is going over my head, I look for easier explanations through google, the "incredibly easy" book series, or through ATI. ATI is a GREAT adjunct to what is explained in your books. It takes out all of the "fluff" and tells you what you need to know.

One more thing: Always allow yourself some free time while in nursing school. Don't let your life revolve around nursing school.

Good luck on your journey :)

[Cougar12]

Thank you both for your responses! I really appreciate you taking the time to write and respond to my concerns. I think by biggest issue is just overthinking and lacking confidence.

I have done some reading online, and have already purchased the made incredibly easy book for the pathophysiology class that I will be taking this semester. If that book proves to be beneficial I will probably purchase others for the other classes I will be taking.

Thank you again! :)