4 Nursing School Survival Hacks
Nursing school is tough. In fact, I would describe it more like… riding a bike. Except the bike is on fire, there are no handlebars, and you have a flat tire. But you will make it through!
Now, my school was not your average 4 year Bachelor’s degree, but instead an accelerated RN course that is just 2 years. So, I cannot speak for all nursing schools, but I think that these tips should cover all of the bases for anyone in any kind of nursing program! Trust me, you’ll want these handy if you’re about to start nursing school (or if you’re already there and feel like you’re drowning).
1.) Learn the pathophysiology behind the disease process!
This was seriously a lifesaver for me. I know, everyone hates A&P and thinks that it’s too hard. But hear me out: if you understand how a body system works and how the disease affects it, you’ll be able to easily apply that information when it comes to test questions. So, if you can remember, for example, that left-sided heart failure affects the lungs, you can easily remember that it can cause symptoms such as dyspnea, shortness of breath, and crackles, without having to memorize each and every symptom! This will make answering your exam questions so much easier, and you’ll actually retain and be able to apply your knowledge.
2.) Set an organized study schedule.
Stay. Organized. Seriously, don’t just “wing it” or study sporadically. Set a schedule for when you’ll study and for how long, put your phone away, and find a cozy corner to dedicate to studying (read my other blog posts for more tips on this!).
3.) Find friends that are on the same “wavelength” as you.
You can be friends with anyone and everyone, but when it comes to your study sessions, it’s important that you work with individuals who can help elevate your studying and enhance your learning. Spend time with people who have a similar ability to understand the concepts so that you can all work together and help teach one another. I have 2 very close friends at my nursing school who have helped me tremendously! Not only are they incredibly intelligent, but they are kind, caring, and supportive, and help pick me up when I’m feeling down.
4.) Do practice questions (like, hundreds of them).
This is pretty much what helped me ace my exams. It’s pointless to stare at your study guide because nursing-style questions are all about application. Maybe you can memorize all of the terms you need to know, but do you know how to apply them? You have to learn this skill by practicing it. There are hundreds if not thousands of free practice questions online that you can use to help yourself learn to answer nursing-style questions. Do this, and you’ll see a difference in your test scores!
Now, everyone’s nursing school journey is going to look a little bit different, and that’s okay. But I truly believe that these 4 easy tips will completely change the game for you! Good luck, and happy studying!
