Student issue

[Knotanoonurse]

This is my first semester lecturing for students. It has been tough in some respects. I have one or two students who are doing ok, but not as well as in other courses. One is completely irrate over an exam. Yet I had students who failed last exam pass with great scores on this exam. The irrate student complains about the exam grade in my presence but not to me. This person is 40-45 years old, not a very young student. I do not entertain that kind of behavior. If this person called me I would have met with her. What experiences do others have with students who are being unreasonable?

[meanmaryjean, DNP, RN]

Let them vent, inform them of the policy, and let it evolve from there. Hopefully, professional communication is part of your policy.

Also, I have a couple of older students who view nursing school as a retail transaction (I pay my money- you give me my degree). The fallacy of this sometimes needs to be explained to these students.

[jennycRN]

I have tried to develop a thick skin. If the student won't address me directly with their comments, then I don't have cause to respond. Be prepared for some negative reviews at the end of the semester! Some people will grumble and undermine wherever they are.... And the stress of nursing school doesn't always bring out the best in these people.

[LilyRN99]

Students under stress don't always act how they normally would. I've noticed that students who are struggling get more frustrated and angry. Are they putting in enough time to study? Maybe suggest some study strategies such as study groups, quizlet, and youtube. Many older students are married with children and have a lot of responsibilities at home so there isn't a lot time to study. Or they are working full times as well. They may not realize how much time is necessary to do well in nursing school. I've also had students who expect good grades with minimal effort and lash out when they don't do well. If the student doesn't approach you about it, I wouldn't get involved. Or just ask that they do not speak negatively about other instructors in your presence.