dru2007

I, too, an axious and freaked out on my last day off prior to going back to work. I am a new grad who is orienting on a multi-system PCU floor. The patient load for nurses is 5. I have worked my way up to 4 so far. (its only been 3 shifts with 4 pts).I am constantly running in different directions, trying to get a hold on the problems that arise( which are many). I am on my toes at all times. I try to do the best that I can. My preceptor feels I am doing well, but I cannot shake the feeling that I will miss something crucial. I have attempted to find the perfect organization sheet/method to keep everything in line, but still have not perfected one yet. I guess what I am saying, not very well, is that I am afraid each and every day. Of exactly what, I don't know. Just gut-wrenching fear. But, I love providing patient care. I feel great each day when the shift has ended, because I know that this is exactly where I should be. I must learn to be patient with my learning curve and enjoy each small success. (such as catching on an assessment something where an immediate intervention is needed). I feel better just from writing this post. Sorry for babbling. I am learning to keep focused, to be proactive and proud of my abilities.

My pinning was June 21 and I just started a critical care internship for the Neuro PCU. I received my ATT about three days ago and scheduled my test for Aug 24. The workload of the internship is extremely demanding and I have no idea where I will find time to study for NCLEX. Fortunately, the first portion of the program is a fast paced, hardcore review of disease processes, body systems with some ethics thrown in for good measure. I am hoping that this will be a review for the exam. I am trying to hit as many questions as possible for practice. I am scoring in the high 60's on the Kaplan online tests. I am excited to pass but extremely nervous about the exam. Any words of encouragement?? I could really use them. Thanks!

I, too, was afraid of entering nursing school. Just remember, while you are taking all your classes, they are trying to push the limits so you will do your best. I am now in my final week of nursing school! Let me just say, the fear doesn't subside once you graduate. You will learn and grow. You will suffer and enjoy much satisfaction. Keep up and never go anywhere without your drug book and your Taber's! Good luck. Be proud of your accomplishments. You will succeed.

Thanks so much for this post. I am in my final semester in an ADN program and tomorrow I have my first interview for a hospital position that could lead to an internship as a GN. I am so excited. However, I don't have a blazer. Just a lovely blouse and a pair of professional pants. Should I go out an buy a blazer tonight?

How about working in Florida Hospital system (you may not be able to start immediately with terminal patients) and they will pay you to obtain your RN and pay you a salary as well while you are attending their school. You must commit to one year employment with them after you graduate. I live in the Orldando area and just read an article in the Orlando Sentinel business section today that had some alternative means of paying for school. It will take some time, but you will be back in the hospice environment before you know it.

Keep in mind, it is not the grades in nursing school, it is the understanding of the material. I have read in a couple of books that if you just do the best you can and leave time for your family, you all will survive this much better. It sure is nice to know that other prenursing students do have some of the same concerns. Hang in there...I believe there is strength in numbers!!

I too love my family more than anything in the world. I know that having my nursing license would provide opportunities that we really can't at this time. My husband also works tons and I have to find endless, creative ways to fill my son's time. Today we went to the science center. He had fun, I am exhausted from chasing him for three hours by myself. My son, who will be four on June 23 has been attending preschool since I started my prereqs two years ago. Only for the two 1/2 days a week that I was attending classes. He likes it. Except now, he is ever more clingy when I drop him off. He knows that school, for me, is approaching, and he doesn't want me to go. He says all the time that he doesn't want me to be a nurse. He only wants me to make him feel better, not other people. :rotfl: It is going to be very hard to leave him for all that extra time but I do know that in the long run (which isn't very long) it will pay off ten fold for both of us. I am looking forward to spending this time with adults and learning so many new things that I will be in awe of my abilities. I can't wait to be totally proud of myself. Now if I could stick to a diet and exercise plan!! I know that if we all just keep the big picture in mind, we can work out the problems.

Jennifer: I am not sure how to PM you. Hopefully this will reach you. It seems that we should try to keep in touch as we will be experiencing the exact same thing. I start in August, too. Perhaps we could be long time email buddies..let me know...

I am awaiting the first day of class for my ADN program. I am 40 years old and have a 4 year old little boy. I have been a stay at home mom since he was born (except for taking all my prereqs). I have been having trouble sleeping as I so worried about starting school. Of course, the guilt of my son having to spend more time at preschool, is the main source. Also, what if I am unable to perform my duties? When I was taking all my prereqs, nursing was the goal that I knew I wanted to achieve. I have so much to offer and have an ability to comfort people, so nursing was the perfect choice. Now since I have gotten my acceptance letter and have been waiting for the program to begin, I am so FREAKED out!!! I am unsure if I will be able to give my son what he needs, if I will be able to pass all my nursing classes and if I will be able to give my patients what they need...maybe I need to stop worrying about giving everyone everything and things will fall into place. If anyone out there can give some encouragement, I would gratefully appreciate it!! Thanks...