Are you considering a career in nursing? If so, there are a few things you should study before you start nursing school. In this post, we'll discuss three key topics that will help you get ready for a successful nursing career. So, what do you need to know? Keep reading to find out!
Nursing school is a big decision. It's not only a considerable investment of time and money, but it's also an enormous commitment. You will be spending years of your life studying to become a nurse, so you want to make sure you pick the right nursing program to get ahead of the pack.
If you're considering going to nursing school, now is the time to get ready.
This blog post is all about what to study before nursing school
You need to consider many things before going to nursing school in order to be successful. You will need to make sure that you have the right mindset and the proper study habits. In addition, there are a few specific subjects that you should focus on to get a head start in your nursing education.
This article will outline all of the most critical aspects you should focus on while preparing for nursing school.
Topics To Review Before Starting Nursing School
#1. Cardiovascular System
Nursing school is a lot of work, and it's essential to do your research before applying. One topic you should study is the cardiovascular system.
This system controls the flow of blood throughout the body, so it's essential to understand how it works to provide patients with the best possible care.
Many resources are available online to help you learn about the cardiovascular system, including articles, videos, and quizzes. You can also talk to your friends and family members who are nurses to get their advice.
By studying this topic, you'll be better prepared for nursing school and your career as a nurse.
#2. Pulmonary System
Another most common system that you should review is the pulmonary system. At Least you should know the basics of it and what’s its role is in the body.
In addition, you can volunteer in a hospital or nursing home and practice taking care of patients who have breathing problems to get a head start in that. If you don't get the opportunity for this, its fine, you will have lots of chances when you start nursing school and after graduation.
#3. Electrolytes
Consider studying electrolytes as it's a big deal in the body. Electrolytes are minerals in the body that carry an electric charge. They help maintain fluid balance and nerve function.
If you are a nursing student, it is crucial to understand electrolytes and the names of electrolytes in the body. You may need to know how to monitor electrolyte levels and treat electrolyte imbalances when you become a nurse.
No, I'm not saying that you should learn all the ranges, but at least you should know what electrolytes are present and their purpose.
#4. Renal System
It is essential to know the basics of the renal system before entering nursing school. By reviewing the basics of this system, you can accelerate your nursing school experience and better understand the concepts covered in your courses.
What's the purpose of the renal system and how does it help the body, what organs are included in this system, what's the shape of the kidney and its location. These are the basic things that you should know. Also, don't forget to learn about where urine is formed (hint: Renal tubule plays a huge part!).
You can do several things to learn about the renal system and prepare for nursing school. You can read textbooks or watch educational videos on Youtube. There are many more resources and apps that can help you out there.
#5. Digestive System
How can we forget about the digestive system? If you want to excel in nursing school, you must understand the digestive system. You should learn about the different parts of the digestive system, how they work together, and their purpose in the human body.
This will help you tremendously in your school, as you will study many diseases that are related to the digestive system.
Tips To Prepare For Nursing School
The idea of going to nursing school is often very daunting. It can be hard enough to get through a four-year college, but it can become unbearable with the added responsibility of caring for people's health. But it doesn't have to be that way!
There are many ways you can prepare yourself before starting your nursing school journey to make your life much easier and more enjoyable.
Here are just a few tips for getting ready for nursing school success:
Tip #1. Look Into The Requirements
There are different requirements for nursing schools in different states. You should look into the specific requirements for the nursing school you are interested in and make sure that you meet all of the needs. Ask your admissions counselor if you need any help.
Some of the most common requirements include a high school diploma or equivalent, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a nursing entrance exam (like the TEAS).
Make sure you are familiar with all of your chosen nursing school requirements and start working on meeting them as soon as possible. This will help ensure that you have a smooth application process and are accepted into the school of your choice.
Tip #2. Consider Finances
The expense of nursing school is one of the most crucial factors to think about. Nursing schools are often costly, and many students need financial aid to cover the costs.
You should start thinking about how much money you will need to attend nursing school and plan for it. This may include looking into scholarships and grants available to nursing students. You can also start saving money now to have enough saved up when the time comes to pay for school.
If you need to take out loans to finance your education, be sure to research different loan options and compare interest rates. You want to ensure you're receiving the most excellent bargain possible so that after graduation, you can pay off your debt quickly.
You can also find some nursing-related jobs you can get as a pre-nursing student to pay your expenses.
Tip #3. Get School Supplies
There are a few things that every nursing student should have in their arsenal before they start school.
One of the most important things is a good stethoscope. You'll be using it to listen to patients' hearts and lungs, so it's essential to have a quality one.
You'll also want to have a supply of pens and paper since you'll be taking lots of notes in class. And finally, don't forget your lab coat!
It's crucial to stay organized and look professional in style. Check our nursing student dedicated page to see all the nursing school must haves you need to get a head start in your journey.
Tip #4. Recognize Your Learning Style
Everybody learns differently. Some people learn best by listening to lectures, others by reading textbooks. Some students need a lot of interaction to learn, while others can sit in a classroom and be perfectly content, not speaking to anyone the entire day.
The key to succeeding in nursing school is understanding your learning style and adapting your studying methods to fit you. If you're somebody who learns best by listening to lectures, you'll want to find recordings of all the lessons for the classes you're taking and listen to them on your commute or while you're working out.
The Notability App is what I used for recording lectures and taking notes on power point slides during nursing school. I found it super helpful and instrumental in my success in nursing school. Definitely check it out.
If you're a visual learner, make sure to use lots of diagrams and charts when studying, and try rewriting your notes in a different color every time you review them.
Tip #5. Find Your Study Tools
Although nursing is a hands-on profession, the bulk of nursing education takes place in the classroom or through reading textbooks. To get the most out of your education, you need to find practical tools and apps that can help you study.
One great tool for nurses is an app called Nursing Reference Center Plus. This app provides access to nursing journals, videos, and images. Additionally, it includes a drug database and a clinical calculator.
Another essential tool for nursing students is a good study guide. A good study guide will review all the information you need to know for your class exams. It will also include practice questions so that you can test your knowledge and areas you need to focus on!
With these tools at your disposal, you'll be well on your way to passing the NCLEX with flying colors and becoming a registered nurse!
Tip #6. Build Your Support System
Nursing school is a challenging time, both academically and emotionally. It's essential to have a robust support system in place to help you succeed.
Here are some tips for building your support system:
- Talk to your family and friends or fellow nursing students about your goals and ask for their support.
- Join a nursing student group or online community forum where you can share study tips and encouragement with other students.
- Find a mentor who can help guide you through the challenges of nursing school.
- Look for resources such as tutors or study groups to help you stay on track academically.
- Lean on your loved ones when you need emotional support during tough times.
Having a supportive network will help make the journey to nursing school much more effortless. With the right people in your corner, you can overcome any obstacle that comes your way.
And don't forget to prioritize your mental and physical health.
Tip #7. Get Vaccinated
One of the main reasons nursing students are required to get vaccinated is because they are in close contact with patients and can quickly acquire and spread diseases if they're not vaccinated.
Additionally, many nursing schools require vaccination records as part of the application process, so it's best to get your shots done well in advance. And don't worry - getting vaccinated is a quick and easy process that won't take up too much of your time. So go ahead and schedule your appointment today!
What to Expect In Nursing School?
Nursing school is a time of great transition. You go from being a student to becoming a professional.
There are new challenges to face, and you must learn how to navigate the waters of the nursing profession.
But with hard work and dedication, you can make it through nursing school and emerge as a successful nurse.
Here are some things you can expect during your time in nursing school.
Coursework
In nursing school, you will be required to complete various coursework to obtain your degree. So expect a lot of learning!
The most fundamental courses will cover anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. These courses are essential for understanding the human body and how it works.
You will also learn about nursing theory and practice to become a competent nurse.
In addition, there are often classes in pharmacology, which teach you about the various medications used in health care.
Nursing Simulation Labs
Nursing students can expect to participate in simulation labs as part of their training. These labs allow students to practice their skills in a safe and controlled environment.
In addition to nursing skills, you will also have the opportunity to practice communication and teamwork skills.
Clinical Rotations
Most nursing schools do not start a clinical rotation immediately after admission.
The school's first months are focused on courses, including readings, writing assignments, and examinations.
This could be overwhelming because you have no patient service experience yet to assist you in gaining a good idea about how things work. It will not be easy at first, but eventually, things will get smooth over time.
Clinical rotations are a crucial part of nursing school. They provide students with the opportunity to apply the knowledge they have learned in the classroom to a real-world setting.
During clinical rotations, you will work with nurses and doctors in various healthcare settings.
FAQs
How many hours a day should you study in nursing school?
While there is no one definitive answer to this question, most people would probably agree that you should study between 8-10 hours per day. This may seem like a lot, but it's important to remember that the more you learn, the better your chances of passing your nursing exams and becoming a registered nurse.
Of course, it's also important to take time for yourself and relax every once in a while. So don't feel like you need to spend every waking hour studying – make sure that you're putting in enough time each day to achieve your academic goals.
What should I wear on the first day of nursing school?
A hospital gown. Just kidding! (But seriously, it wouldn't hurt to practice wearing one in preparation for your first day of nursing school.)
The absolute best thing you can wear on the first day of nursing school is something that makes you feel confident and comfortable.
Wear what makes you feel like a badass nurse-in-the-making! Maybe that's a sharp blazer and pencil skirt combo, or perhaps it's your favorite cozy sweater and leggings.If you are required to wear scrubs by your school, then there's your answer.
As long as you feel good in what you're wearing, you'll exude confidence and be ready to take on whatever the day throws at you.
Is nursing school hard to pass?
It depends on your definition of "hard." Nursing school is challenging, but it's possible to pass with enough hard work and perseverance.
Many people find nursing school difficult because of the sheer amount of material that needs to be learned. Not only do you need to know the facts and concepts related to nursing, but you also need to be able to apply them in a clinical setting.
This can be incredibly daunting for students new to the nursing profession.
But don't worry - with enough time and effort, you can pass nursing school. Just make sure that you stay focused and don't get too overwhelmed.
Are there any pre-nursing jobs for students?
There are a few pre-nursing jobs for students- the most common of which is a job in a hospital or doctor's office. These jobs can help you develop the skills and experience you need to become a nurse.
Other options include working as a certified nursing assistant (CNA), medical assistant, or emergency medical technician (EMT). Each of these jobs will give you crucial hands-on experience in the medical field that can be helpful when you become a nurse.
Check out our blog on some awesome pre nursing school jobs that can help you financially through nursing school and help you acquire some great experience in your nursing journey.
What procedures do you learn in nursing school?
There are many procedures that students learn in nursing programs. One of the most important is how to take a patient's vital signs. This includes taking a patient's temperature, pulse, and blood pressure. Students also learn how to administer medications, insert foleys and many more.
Additionally, they learn about wound care and how to properly collect specimens for lab tests. These are just a few of the many procedures that nurses must know to provide quality care to their patients.
It's A Wrap!
So, now that you know what to study before nursing school, you should get started on your prep work. It's important to give yourself enough time to review all the material and and check all the requirement for your school, as well as getting all the nursing essentials you will need to get geared up for this long rewarding journey.
Nursing is a challenging but worthwhile field, so good luck as you prepare for this next step in your career!
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