Hey everyone. I'm starting school in the Fall. I'm kinda looking for some insight and good tips that will get me in the mind set of what I'll be dealing with. Anyone got some tips for me???

Buy an nclex study book with a cd and start practicing questions now. As you go through body systems in class, study the testing material in the nclex book on the subjects you are going over. Also, many of your regular nursing textbooks will have cds with additional test questions on them. Use them.

Nursing exams are different from other exams in many ways. Often there is more than one correct answer, you will be required to choose the "best" answer. Other questions are to determine which action the nurse should take 'first' and many questions will require you to answer based on the Nursing Process. You will have to know whether your question is asking for an assessment or for an intervention.

I agree with Beth that the first semester was the hardest. So when it gets hard don't give up, because if you just make it through first semester it will get better!

Buy plenty of Cue Cards and highlighters... the cards are to make yourself flashcards and the hbighlighters.. well you know what those are for!
Good Luck!

The one word that comes to mind from semester 1 is "overwhelming." Once you get used to the volume of work they want you to do, and accept that you'll have no life for the next 16 weeks, you'll be ok. Making a good friend or friends helps. It's always better to go through hell with a partner.

Thanks Angie. What made you choose the program that you will be attending? I think several prospective nurse would like to hear about what factors influenced your decision.

Hey guys, I've just graduated as a RN earlier this month. My best advice is get used to having no life, you'll have one later and probably better...
Each semester has it's own difficulties and trials but it's totally possible. Make friends with your classmates, you'll see them more than anyone else and a study buddy is very helpful, you don't necessarily have to study together but they're great sounding boards, you can remind each other of upcoming assignments help for skill check offs and just moral support, because unless you're in or have been in nursing school they haven't a clue how it sucks your life & time.
Try to conquer as much as you can because it will turn up again later. If you have to make out med sheets get a binder now and keep them organize you'll save time in the long run. Any other questions just ask.
And biggest hint.... don't believe everything you hear from other people and keep an open mind....there is a method to your instructors madness...Wish you all the best of luck!!!

gigglz said:

Hey guys, I've just graduated as a RN earlier this month. My best advice is get used to having no life, you'll have one later and probably better...
Each semester has it's own difficulties and trials but it's totally possible. Make friends with your classmates, you'll see them more than anyone else and a study buddy is very helpful, you don't necessarily have to study together but they're great sounding boards, you can remind each other of upcoming assignments help for skill check offs and just moral support, because unless you're in or have been in nursing school they haven't a clue how it sucks your life & time.
Try to conquer as much as you can because it will turn up again later. If you have to make out med sheets get a binder now and keep them organize you'll save time in the long run. Any other questions just ask.
And biggest hint.... don't believe everything you hear from other people and keep an open mind....there is a method to your instructors madness...Wish you all the best of luck!!!

I think Angie's right about adjusting your schedule as a nurse once you're working. I took a position that is 32 hours a week to get my foot in the door at the hospital I wanted to work for; plus allow for me to be a mom again, my son is in kindergarten and has given up just as much if not more to allow me to get my degree. I do believe once you finish school and it sinks in you're done (it takes awhile :) ) then you have to relearn and transition into working mode. You should have more time, one you complete boards... I'll have to let you know when I get there.

I'm about to start my second semester of the nursing program. . . I find myself feeling like I did at the beginning of first. . . will this never end?