There is LIGHT at the end of the tunnel!

On December 13, 2014 I graduated with my BSN! I would like to share 10 KEY tips and tricks to help nursing students survive and make it to the END:

1.      Get organized & QUICK! Purchase a planner! Even if you’ve never used one in your life—these things can help TONS! Set aside study time each day and form a habit. Always get started on whatever it is that needs to be done before it’s too late! I know, easier said than done? But I must say it anyway.

2.      Form a study group! With 2-3 people at most. Usually, the more people in the group, the less likely you are to focus. Study groups aren’t for everyone though and you will know if you are that person almost instantly.

3.      Always be professional, especially when in uniform. This includes wearing little to no make-up and avoiding heavy fragrances and jewelry.

4.      Think of your clinical as an 8 or 12 hour interview. You never know who is watching you at your clinical site ((besides your instructor)). This can be very good or very bad so always be on your best behavior because you never know, this place could be your workplace one day.

5.      Respect thy neighbor! Be nice to each other! Yes there will always be that person who “has something to say” in lecture or always shares that story about “Auntie who has that disease” but—it’s ok! If you don’t have anything nice to say, just don’t say anything.

6.      Be accountable! We are human and yes surprisingly enough we all make mistakes. Don’t be afraid to step forward and admit you did something wrong especially if it involves a patient. We are honest and we are advocates! Learn from mistakes!

7.      Try to avoid arguing with your professor or “correcting” them. They have been doing this much longer than you. No—I am not saying they can’t make mistakes but if so, approach it with rationale that can be referenced so they can address it directly. If you correct them expect this face:

8.      Bs & Cs get degrees! No—I’m not saying don’t try your best but what I am saying is that it’s ok if you don’t get those straight As you dreamed of prior to starting the program. What IS important is that you learn how to think critically and safely! Life goes on!

"My first B!"

9.      Make time for yourself! Yes--I said it and you must do it! Have fun every once in a while! Nursing School is SUPER stressful and requires a balancing of the beam in order for you to keep your sanity.

10.   You can do THIS! No it will not be easy.. but it is completely worth it! Yes you will cry some nights and that is OK. Keep pushing and fighting til the end because your hardwork and dedication will SOON pay off! There is light at the end of the tunnel!

 (Disclaimer: I, surgicalnurse.blogspot.com, do not own, nor did I create any of the animations above. I did create the captions written above and below them, customizing them to my experiences along with learning tips I have found helpful in my practice. Everything I mention is my personal opinion and is not factual).