What to do while on waitlists?

goingformydream · Nov 26, 2007

hey there! I wrote this same exact post one year ago! Here is what I did...I spent lots and lots and lots of time with my children, read lots of books, lost 30lbs, took Pharm and Nursing Foundations, and just had fun... I can say it went by fast (people said it would and I didn't believe them) I start in February. Good luck to you! How long (approx) is your wait?

debbie54 · Nov 26, 2007

this is good info!

azor · Nov 26, 2007

What you 'll do?Pray it comes to pass and your wish and dream come to reality.

Krissiana · Nov 27, 2007

I've been thinking about this same thing! I'm taking my pre-reqs right now... but I will have an estimated 1 year wait after finishing my pre-reqs before getting to start nursing school. My school has a wait list where if you keep your grades up taking the pre-reqs you are guaranteed entrance into NS when your number comes up on the waiting list. I hate having to sit out of school for a whole year... but I also like knowing that entrance into school is a sure thing. I'll probably spend lots of time with my daughter... maybe a take a few courses that might end up being helpful in NS. I also will need to get my CPR certification during that time.

caliotter3 · Nov 27, 2007

You should continue to work at a job in the health care field if you have one and continue to take classes that will count toward that next degree. Maybe buy the nursing fundamentals book that your school is currently using and take a peek?! Another very important thing to do, if you are not already involved in a physical fitness program, now is the time to start and develop good habits. Get yourself in shape for the rigors of ns. You will be able to better withstand all the stress and everything if you are healthy and fit. Exercise, excercise, exercise. Lose weight if you have to. Develop good sleep habits. Start a heart healthy diet if you don't already do this. The time to do all of this is before school starts, not to try and make drastic lifestyle changes while adapting to school. And don't forget to do extra things to enjoy your family now while you can.

jackson145 · Nov 28, 2007

Enjoy your family and free time! Also, have you considered taking a CNA course? It's actually a pre-req for some NS. Even if not required, it will really help with fundamentals when you start NS. Medical Terminology is not required at my school, but I took it as a filler course and it was very helpful. Some people take Nutrition or Pharmacology ahead of time, but, sadly, that isn't an option where I go. If you have a long wait, try to stay fresh on your anatomy and physiology.

Pneumothorax, BSN, RN · Nov 30, 2007

So what have you guys done while being on the never ending waitlists? It feels like such a waste of time, I'm considering just getting a BS in Biology while I wait and see what opportunities open up.

well im enrolled in phlebotomy school so i can get some pt. contact and hospital experience :) and you work directly under an RN so its good shadowing in a sense.just no giving drugs

Cosper123 · Nov 30, 2007

If you haven't already, take a medical terminology class, pharmocology, and Spanish.

If you've done all of that already, I'd find out which Basic Nursing book your program uses and start reading up on it. It would also help to get your drug guide early and start making flashcards of the most commonly prescribed drugs.

All of these things will give you a clear edge. In my experience, those of us who are the most prepared aren't targeted by those sorts of instructors who prey on the weak

Pneumothorax, BSN, RN · Dec 4, 2007

if you haven't already, take a medical terminology class, pharmocology, and spanish.
if you've done all of that already, i'd find out which basic nursing book your program uses and start reading up on it. it would also help to get your drug guide early and start making flashcards of the most commonly prescribed drugs.
all of these things will give you a clear edge. in my experience, those of us who are the most prepared aren't targeted by those sorts of instructors who prey on the weak

wiser words have never been spoken. if you learn you drugs/dosages or even if u learn the names (generic/trade/name brand) you'll have a really great edge on all your nursing class mates*&*you'll*impress*everyone! :)

Flagellum Dei · Dec 4, 2007

An EMT class would cover some basic skills and knowledge that might be useful in the future. It's also a window into another healthcare discipline.

Krissiana · Dec 5, 2007

Thanks for all of the great ideas everyone is giving. I think I'll look into a Med Terminology course. Also... if I decided to start making flashcards of drugs, what would I need to put on those flashcards?