If you’ve reached this page because you’re a nurse, in nursing school, or curious about nursing in general, you’ve reached the perfect destination. Welcome!
There is no monetary worth for the selfless acts performed during the 36+ hours a week worked. It is common for nurses to go above and beyond for patients. A lot of times, these acts of service are overlooked. To start this page off correctly, it is appropriate to say, Thank you to all the healthcare workers who sacrifice themselves for quality care and patient satisfaction. You are important!
Chapter I: Things you should consider before you get into nursing school.
Think about your “why.” Thinking about what motivates you to become a nurse might be why you stay in the profession! Nursing is not for everyone. That being said:
Here are four things to consider before becoming a nurse:
- How comfortable are you with nudity, body fluids, feces, and urine?
- Nursing knows NO boundaries, so leave your pride at the door! When walking into a patient’s room, be prepared to see anything and everything.
- How well do you handle different personalities?
- Nursing does not discriminate. You must be able to care for EVERYONE with the same amount of compassion and tough love. While most patients are cordial, you may run into some patients who push your limits. As a nurse, you have to choose the best way to respond.
- How well do you manage your time?
- Many shifts are 12 hours, but a nurse’s time FLIES. Time management is also key to being successful in nursing school.
- Are you good with technology and innovation?
- Nurses must continue to be educated and up to date with how medicine is evolving. Although nursing school is only two years, we will continue to learn throughout our careers.
Chapter II: Applying to Nursing school
Now that you know your “why,” The timing is right; what’s next? Select the right program for you.
It does NOT matter what school you attend if it is an accredited nursing program. Whether you Graduate from the #1 school in your state or your local community college, it does not make a difference to most hospitals. Earning your BSN and RN will land you a job in the hospital.
competitive requirements
Programs are competitive, and the requirements vary depending on the school. So, what does this mean? This means that students with higher GPAs and higher test scores (TEAS/ HESI) will have stronger applications based on program guidelines. However, high GPAs and test scores are not always the deciding factor! Select schools will interview potential candidates. In this application process, the schools will contact you for an interview.
Additional factors that strengthen your application include earning A’s in classes like Anatomy and Physiology I & II, Microbiology, and Biology I. it is crucial to focus on those classes and perform well.
What happens if you don’t get accepted? If nursing is the career you want to pursue, continue to apply!
Tip 1: If at first you don’t succeed, TRY again. π
Do not allow the competitiveness of a program to psych you out! You CAN achieve your goal/ dream of becoming a registered nurse! π©Ί
Standardized testing for Nursing school
Nursing schools require the TEAS or HESI. These are standardized tests to show basic knowledge. Check your program guidelines to see what test to take. Knowing which test you are required to take and what score you are aiming for is essential.
Nervous test-takers, do not fear! (Tips for test anxiety coming soon) There are test materials that will help you prepare. Test materials are listed and linked down below!
Tip 2 preparation is key π
Make sure you put in the study time! Learning your study style is important because you will study for many hours. Make sure you find the most effective study strategy so you will be successful! (study tips coming soon)