Tips for being nervous

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Specializes in student.

Any tips for being nervous. I am always nervous at school no matter what, and the thing is I know the material I just get the jitters.

Specializes in BSc, Mental Health, Abnormal Psychology.

What about school makes you nervous? Lab, SIMS? or something else?   I know I always get so nervous right before I have to do a SIM.

Specializes in student.

everything literally 

Specializes in Med-Surg.

How long have you been working as an LPN? I ask because if you have some experience under your belt, then treat school as you do your patients. You know that the patients and their families watch you every time you enter the room. Still you do what you go in to do and keep it moving. That should be your approach in your program.

When I was testing for my bridge exam, that was the thought process that led to my success. I made sure that the instructor was out of my line of sight. As the evaluator, it was up to him or her to make sure that they were able to see what I was doing...not the other way around. So what you do is select your best position to perform the task and don't look up until the task is done unless you absolutely have to. It is just you and your patient/task that you focus on.

Also, if you get rid of the fear of failing, there will be no cause for anxiety. What is the worse thing that will happen if you fail a test? You find out that what you thought was the answer is not. So you regroup and try again.

Be prepared to say "Oh d***! Really blew that one, didn't I", laugh it off, and get serious about the next attempt. Another thing that got me through my bridge program is realizing that this program was desired, not required. 😉 

Disclaimer: these are all things that worked for me and my introverted personality. I care about my choices, but even my own caring has limitations.

Deep Breathing: Take slow, deep breaths to calm your nerves.

Positive Self-Talk: Remind yourself of your capabilities.

Preparation: Ensure you're well-prepared for classes and exams.

Visualization: Picture yourself succeeding to build confidence.

Seek Support: Talk to classmates, professors, or a counselor.

Stay Healthy: Prioritize your physical well-being.

Practice Relaxation Techniques: Explore mindfulness or relaxation exercises.

Focus on the Present: Concentrate on the task at hand.

Set Realistic Goals: Break tasks into smaller, manageable goals.

Remember Your Motivation: Reflect on your passion for nursing.

Start exposing yourself to NCLEX style questions EARLY. You can be a phenomenal nurse but learning to critically think and answer these questions will make you successful. When I was in school I used nurse.com, NursetoBee.beehive.com, UWorld, Saunders. All of these resources just expose you to NCLEX which then helps get you ready for nursing school tests. Might just be me but daily questions really helped me. 🤷

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