Nursing is an attractive profession for many since it’s among those careers that pay well. Nurses, on average, make $98,512/year in the U.S., with some receiving salaries as high as $174,900/year. Besides, nursing is one of the few professions where you can make a real difference in people’s lives.
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But the path to becoming a nurse isn’t easy; it’s riddled with lots of hurdles. You must develop a diverse skill set, complete extensive clinical training, and navigate rigorous academic coursework.
Overcoming these challenges, however, isn’t tough. A resilient mindset and the right strategies can help you succeed. Here, we’ll explore some practical tips that will help you tackle the challenges of nursing school.
#1 Master Time Management
Managing time is difficult for every grad student. However, it’s more so for nursing students due to the sheer volume of coursework and clinical hours. You might be tempted to put off your tasks and assignments until the last minute or past their deadline. However, procrastination will only lead to unnecessary stress and lower-quality work. Avoid doing that.
As a nursing student, mastering time management is important. Prioritizing tasks can help you do that. Sort your to-do list by urgency, importance, and due date. Complete important tasks first and tackle the less urgent ones later. Break larger projects into smaller, manageable parts to avoid overwhelming yourself.
Use a planner or calendar to create your weekly schedule. It should include all your commitments, such as study times, class schedules, clinical rotations, and personal activities. Implement the Pomodoro technique—working for 25 minutes followed by a 5-minute break—to maintain productivity and prevent burnout.
#2 Develop Strong Study Habits
Nursing school is tough. Managing multiple academic responsibilities simultaneously can be overwhelming. Developing strong study habits early on is important.
Establish a schedule incorporating regular, shorter study sessions rather than cramming to improve retention and comprehension. Follow the schedule daily. Find a quiet, comfortable space where you can study without distractions. The place should be well-lit to minimize strain on the eyes.
To reinforce learning, use a variety of study methods, such as flashcards, group study sessions, and practice exams.
Take, for example, you’re enrolled in an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing or ABSN degree program. The curriculum of this program consists of five courses, from foundations of nursing practice to transition to professional roles.
In the nursing and older adult health promotion course, Holy Family University explains, theories of aging, restorative care, and supportive interventions are explored. These are intended to promote and sustain wellness in older adults.
To effectively master these topics, create flashcards for each of them. One side of the flashcard must ask the question, whereas the other must have the answer. For instance, one flashcard might ask, “What is the disengagement theory of aging?” with the back providing a detailed explanation.
Many prefer making physical flashcards. You can do that, but apps like Brainscape and Quizlet can simplify the process of creating flashcards. Use them to organize and access your study materials easily.
#3 Prepare for Clinical Rotations
Whatever you’ve learned in classrooms, you will have to apply them to real-life situations. That’s what clinicals are. This core requirement will introduce you to basic bedside skills and various other specialties.
Nursing clinicals can be challenging. Not only your nursing knowledge but your attitude towards patients and professionalism will also be tested. You must prepare yourself for clinical rotations well in advance.
Research your assigned clinical site beforehand, so you can understand its protocols and patient population. Review relevant procedures and brush up on the skills you’ll likely use. This will help you feel more confident and ready to contribute effectively.
Study your patients’ medical history carefully before you go. This will allow you to provide more personalized and informed care and anticipate potential complications. You can even engage in meaningful discussions with your clinical instructors and peers.
Whenever in doubt, ask questions. You’re a practicing nursing student. It’s obvious you don’t know everything yet. If you don’t feel confident about doing something, ask your preceptor. They will guide you best in this regard.
#4 Adapt to Technological Advancements
Caring for patients is your priority, but you must be proficient in technology. It will help you do your job efficiently. This proficiency must begin when you’re in nursing school since telehealth services, advanced diagnostic tools, and electronic health records are becoming the standard.
If your nursing school or clinical sites offer training sessions on technological advancements, engage in them actively. You must also practice using simulation software and virtual labs to hone your clinical skills in a controlled environment.
Keep yourself updated about emerging technologies by reading relevant journals, attending webinars, and participating in professional forums. This will help you understand how new tools can improve patient care and streamline nursing workflows. Your proficiency with technological advancements will prepare you for the realities of modern nursing practice and put you ahead of your peers.
To sum things up, nursing school has its own hurdles. You can overcome the challenges you face in nursing school by following the tips discussed here. Other than that, make time for socializing. Not socializing will have a negative impact on your studies. Remember to stay focused and stay resilient. All the long hours, sleepless nights, and hard work will be worth it in the end.
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