ruby red slippers

i am in a 15 month program too. i just began my 3rd semester out of 4. we had a nursing fundamentals course in the beginning, so it's odd that your program doesn't have one (honestly though, it's basically med surg I), but anyways i know how you feel. i worry about practicing safely and competently when i graduate too. when i get report in the morning at clinical, i do try and sneak a look at the patient's chart to see their code status before i go in to do the initial assessment. usually if they're DNR or DNI, it's noted in the front of the chart, really noticeably. but you can always ask your clinical instructor or primary RN about where to find the info. also, depending on the unit, there may be a code button, but totally ask your clinical instructor/primary RN about what to do. also, usually you do an assessment as soon after report as possible, starting with the sickest patient first. try to go in with your primary RN and watch her do an assessment on another one of her patients. you can also carry a little cheat sheet that goes by body system if you're worried about forgetting something. it seems to me that no matter what, when we graduate we will not know enough, but the hospital where you get your first job will orient you pretty thoroughly. also, other RNs on your unit can be really good sources of information - i know so many RNs are unapproachable, or don't want to be bothered, but it's better to ask a question than to jeopardize your patient. also, something i wish i had thought of sooner was doing an externship at a hospital. my classmates who are doing externships love it and are a lot more confident in their practice. also, check out hospitals in your area to see which ones have new grad programs. anyway, i know it's not advice from a nurse, but i hope it was somewhat helpful. try to hang in there - it's just part of being a nursing student! :)

thanks nurse ty - i'll check it out. good luck with your own studying...

hey, does anyone know a good review book for the NLN exam? thanks, dorothy

i am starting chem II on thursday! i took chem I over the summer but the teacher went through everything too slowly and now i'm worried i won't be prepared for this class. we'll see how much review the teacher does - hopefully i won't be too lost. good luck everyone...

i'm in A&P this fall too... i just got my textbook and dissection kit. my first class is tomorrow. i can't wait to get started! good luck to everyone!