I really felt like I was drowning my first pre-req semester. None of the study methods that got me through a poli sci degree were working, and it was super disheartening. I got very lucky that before my next semester our school had a prep/study seminar for free. They really pushed the Pomodoro Technique, which worked wonders for me. Turns out trying to study for a couple of hours straight was a terrible idea - at least for my brain. I would just burn out on the material constantly.
The other thing that really helped me was that it normalized the idea that I am learning this material from bottom up. I do not have the same knowledge base to draw from for sciences that I do humanities - something I didn't realize I relied so heavily upon. Pre-req's are all about building up that base of knowledge - allow yourself to learn, but don't let perfection be the enemy of good.
The biggest challenge since Covid though has been figuring out what information to focus on, just like you. I can only speak from my experience, but for the most part, I rarely read textbooks anymore. The science professors on our campus test almost exclusively off the lecture slides they post online. So, I make a Quizlet set for every test and use their adaptive learning feature, with the lecture slides as a guide. Since I started doing that I consistently score in the 88-92 range on most exams.
You can email her for some NCLEX practice exams at:
You can support the podcast at: https://anchor.fm/pocket-nurse/support
You can also listen here: https://anchor.fm/pocket-nurse
Have you done your training yet? You should have a hospital orientation and a unit orientation and then a precepting period that should go a long way to settling your nerves. Know where to look up your hospital policies & protocols, that will be a better resource than some app.
For more general resource quick lookup stuff, there’s the Med-Surg Noters pocket guide as the cliff notes to diagnostics & procedures, and if you buy one and bring it in your pocket every day it will guarantee you never need it.
https://www.amazon.com/MedSurg-Notes-Nurses-Clinical-Pocket/dp/0803657625/
I really appreciated having my folding clipboard with plenty of scratch paper. I also had a roll of micropore tape and mini sharpie attached to my badge. And at least 3 retractable black pens in my pocket.
Follow your program’s dress code. Even if other students start breaking away and wearing socks, shoes, jewelry, nail polish, hair accessories, etc., that are against dress code and get away with it, stick to it. Professors may get annoyed and it may hurt you later.
Offer to help your classmates do pericare, turn patients, etc. Foster an environment of cooperation.
Ask questions if you have them!! It’s unsafe not to.
Always be respectful and professional toward your preceptors, TAs, professors, colleagues. Your clinical professors will be your best job references.
Good Grades, a Social Life, Enough Sleep: pick two.
Not shitting.
In all seriousness, your saving grace will be flashcards. Not just any flashcard sets that you find off of Quizlet, either: you have to make these yourself, and format them in a way that makes you ask "How could this be used as a question on the exam?". For every line of info that you read, there are at least two possible questions/flashcards that can be made from it.
For example, if your notes happen to say > Hematology is the study of blood.
You must assume that one of your exam questions will be either:
What is the study of blood? Hematology
Hematology is the study of ___? blood
Make flashcards like this for every single line of notes you are given. Again, every single line: never make the mistake of assuming that something's not going to be on the exam, because it fucking will be. It's time consuming, it's stressful, you'll hate the process, but it works.
For the lab portions, which is mostly just muscle/bone memorization, I would suggest getting acquainted with zygotebody.com.
These clipboards are ideal for clinical. Expensive but worth it. They fold and fit in your scrub pockets and also have convenient notes/charts on them. I hesitated paying that much for a clipboard but I have truly used it every clinical and lab day.
I'm down! A bunch of people from /r/Loseit are on myfitnesspal; we can start an /r/studentnurse group on MFP too, and keep tabs on each other. Shit, I'd be happy to start one if OP doesn't mind, and get our own little niche community going.
Solidarity, yo.
Libraries are amazing and completely underappreciated! I have two clingy cats and a dog that gets a bit too affectionate and libraries are my lifeline when I need a quiet place to be for a few hours.
https://mynoise.net/ is great for drowning out some noise, and may help if you need more/different noise than you get at a library but may not be sufficient to drown out home noises.
Good luck!
My biggest advice- don't spend money on a resource app, and don't jump in the supply room to look things up! Rural hospital or not, I'm assuming that you'll have computers around you. There is no shame in looking things up out in the open. I find that I trust the new nurses more if I see them look things up and ask questions before doing something. There's no need to be in a rapid fire link clicking panic inducing struggle- and if your work environment makes you feel like that you need to re-evaluate if they're giving you proper support as a new grad. I work in ICU, and I still see nurses of 30+ years saying "give me 5 minutes, I need to refresh myself on this, then I'll be ready.".That being said, I sometimes carry around a foldable clipboard like this. I started carrying it around because we ran out of counter space to write during covid- but it's also nice to have as it has all the basic references. Personally I've found I've only ever used it for which needle gauge to use; I can't remember that for the life of me without looking at the packaging color. Also since my hospital system uses Celsius and family members will ask me what a temp is in Fahrenheit- I have zero idea, but the conversion is on the back of this clipboard lol. I see nurses and residents and pharmacists carrying around clipboards like this all the time.
Bottom line is that there is no shame in looking things up.As far as youtube goes- you learned everything in school. Throughout every work day you have, keep a running list of unfamiliar topics and then look those up after. You won't retain much if you're just stress-binging overviews now. Good luck- you'll be great!
Also - our text book 'Calculate with Confidence' is an EXCELLENT resource:
THIS is a link to my A&P slides; the course was made for all pre-nursing / pre-med / pre-pharm students at my university at which I took my pre-nursing prerequisites.
Physiology starts on page 2, anatomy on page 2191. On page 1 there is a link to a Google Drive folder that contains physiology video lectures that go along with all the physiology slides and the instructor is incredible, smartest guy I've ever met hands down.
I took his A&P course before starting my intense BSN program and he helped me immensely in feeling prepared, as his physiology teaching doesn't just cover physiology well, but also pathophysiology concepts. CrashCourse and Khan are quite good, but these physiology vids and material I'm sharing are excellent imo and I would recommend his vids and material to anyone looking to prep or review physiology (and anatomy) for nursing school purposes.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0323551122/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_YA8ZRF6K5TEMM2T342D9?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 This is the book my program had in our book packages. It has EVERY single NANDA approved nursing diagnosis you can use with a patient. It's really good to have when learning nursing diagnosis.
To use the book in the front pages (green section) you can look up a medical diagnosis and it will list possible nursing diagnoses. Then you can go to the back pages (listed in alphabetical order) and find that nursing diagnosis and it will tell you possible goals and outcomes and interventions you can use. You can't just pick random ones, relate them to your patient.
I got a HUGE bottle on Amazon for like $15 I think. It is bigger than my bottle of shampoo.
I just got in the 98th percentile last Friday (nineties reading, 100 math, 100 English, seventies science).
I used the Mometrix TEAS secrets book. You can buy it on Amazon, but I just went to my local CC library and checked it out.
I also really, really liked the app called ATI TEAS Pocket Prep.
About a week out, I decided to pay for one practice test. It was super helpful and exactly like the test.
When you take a pulse and use the second hand , the screen will shut off if you aren't moving your arm around (cuz you're too busy intensely counting the beats!). So you gotta shake your arm every so often to wake the watch up when you're doing vitals. Maybe there is a way to delay the sleep function and I haven't found it yet.
It also doesn't have a dedicated 24-hr /military time watch face, unless you set your actual phone to 24 hrs as well-- which might not be a bad idea to start hammering it in.
Otherwise, I'm really happy w it. It was helpful when my clinical instructor messaged me on the floor. It also kept me off my phone so I didn't instinctually pull it out while I was on the floor. You can also use it to set reminders.
Otherwise, a regular watch off Amazon w a 24 hr function will work just fine =) the Casio I linked below served me well!
Casio Women's LRW200H-7BVCF Dive Series Sport Watch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00791QYMQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_MwtlDbDHF7F0N
Take a break, catch up on finances & things, and study A&P in your off-time until you're ready to go back, and then kill it!
Here are all my A&P notes and Physiology video lectures from an EXCELLENT instructor (smartest man I've ever met), University-level: LINK.
PPT file is physiology (if you see it, ignore the extra .ppt file that starts with a ~ ), PDF is anatomy, the rest are videos to go along with the PPT file. This stuff is HARD, but watch and re-watch the videos while following along in the ppt, quiz yourself as you go, and do the same with the PDF and I promise if you learn this material well you are guaranteed to kill it in your own A&P studies later when you're getting graded, and this material will set you up super well to kill it in nursing school. Let me know if you have any questions. GOOD LUCK!
Enjoy your summer and get ready to work in the fall. If you're interested we've got some great guides covering everything from habits and studying medications to passing the NCLEX & more: https://www.brainscape.com/academy/nursing/ -- Congrats on getting into nursing school and good luck this fall! You got this!!!
I have not quiet a fanny pack, but a side pouch that I find useful, holds my clipboard when my pockets don't wanna work, zipper for my car keys, and keeps my pockets free.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VH54Y9R?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I have a HP envy 2-in-1, but if you want some SUPER cheap note-taking that can be converted to pdf, just get a rocketbook notepad instead;https://www.amazon.com/Rocketbook-Erasable-Reusable-Wirebound-Notebook/dp/B071Y3MSRK/ref=sr_1_6?dchild=1&keywords=rocketbook&qid=1624857137&sr=8-6
It's $20 on sale (depending on the color), pages wipe clean with a damp cloth and dry within seconds - I even wipe the pages clean at clinicals with a wet paper towel and dry them off after, it takes mere seconds and that's it. Save $$ on buying a whole computer and just get whatever kind of laptop that you want/need and then for handwritten notes, a rocketbook and some pens are super cheap (and less of an issue if you lose them).
You use the phone app to scan the pages in and it'll compile them into a pdf where you can then choose its destination (email, dropbox, whatever). It's saved me a lot of time and headaches.
Oh yes. We were given a picture of what our shoes had to look like, but they didn’t care what brand. They were picky about our watches, stethoscopes and bandage scissors too—I was nearly sent home for having a digital watch WITH a second counter, instead of an analog watch with a second hand. Another professor complained about my bandage scissors (all black, blades included) until she needed to borrow them and realized how awesome/sturdy they are. Same professor bitched about the fact that I hadn’t put my hair up until I was in the parking lot, still inside my car.
I think you are confusing two different diagnosis. DM (diabetes mellitus) and DI (diabetes insipidus) are two totally different things, despite having similar names.
DM is when the body either can't produce insulin, or isn't as sensitive to it or can't produce enough (type 1 vs type 2).
As for his body taking a hit and having high glucose levels for a while: type 1 diabetes is often caught pretty quickly after the pancreas stops producing insulin (at least compared to type 2). Since there is no insulin production, glucose levels rise pretty quickly, and the negative effects will be seen much quicker. You'll start having the neurological changes and other issues that will (hopefully) prompt a medical evaluation and diagnosis. Type 2 diabetes can take a long time to diagnosis because someone may not see acute changes that prompt a medical evaluation at the ER or clinic (like the s/s of DKA) but their sugar has been sitting at 250 for the past 2 years. That is how/when organ damage and the long term effects of diabetes start to kick in.
I agree with all before me, but http://www.indeed.com/salary will help you figure out salaries. And the big salaries come from the very large amount of shopping plus experience you need to get accepted into some of those programs. Nurse anesthetists are rare. It's a hard program.
Edit for not answering better
A&P 2 was easier than A&P 1, at least for me.
Micro was a walk in the park ... but that's only because I took it a decade ago.
Had to re-take it since most nursing programs want your grades to be from < 5 years ago.
Just make sure you ask around about instructors.
http://www.ratemyprofessors.com/
Some professors want to make their classes a living hell.
My A&P professors wanted to make sure we all understood the content; she was an angel.
I took micro and it was the most fun class out of all the prereqs for nursing ! https://www.amazon.com/Microbiology-Introduction-Gerard-J-Tortora/dp/0134605187/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=microbiology+book&qid=1623040934&sr=8-4 this textbook really helps you with your notes.
I have two, both I got for less than $10 each, used, off Amazon.
Here's the first one I purchased.
Nursing Diagnosis Handbook: An Evidence-Based Guide to Planning Care, 9th Edition, Betty J. Ackle
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0323071503/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
It's OK.
Here's the second one I purchased.
Clinical Companion to Medical-Surgical Nursing: Assessment and Management of Clinical Problems, 8th Edition, Lewis
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0323066623/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Like this one a whole lot more. It's more ... how should I put this?
It gets to the point fast, and uses concise language. It's a small book, which is disconcerting at first, but when you realize how loaded it is with information, you're kind of amazed.
To be perfectly honest with you, clinical is my worst class. I'm fine with patients, have great bedside manner, and have zero issues following a nurse around and helping her all day long. It's when I get home and have to write up my clinical portfolio that I feel like screaming and setting my textbooks on fire. :D
Stethoscope: I’ve been through a lot and honestly my favorite wasn’t a Littmann but an ADC cardiology ( ADC Adscope 601 Convertible Cardiology Stethoscope with Tunable AFD Technology, Adult Diaphragm and Adult Bell or Pediatric Diaphragm, 28 inch Length, Metallic Caribbean https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00912J6JE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_gNCfCbTJWG2DT ). I happened to use it in clinical one time and went home and bought it that night. It’s a little heavier but I could hear really well (important for a girl with hearing loss). It was cheaper when I got it too—I want to say it was closer to $80. I’ve worked with other nurses who use the cheaper ADCs and they work just as well as Litmanns.
As for shears: I typically find something rated well on Amazon and just go for it. That route has always worked for me.
Badge reels: for most of my career I’ve just used whatever free ones I’ve come across. Any time you’re at an event and they have one, take it. I’d always have a backup (or three) in my nurse purse. I put my shears on a reel too because I’m not a magician like all my co-workers / my shears would always fall out of my pocket. and I could put a roll of tape on the reel too.
Shoes: I’ve never gotten into Danskos that everyone swears by. A 12 hour shift is still a 12 hour shift. I’ve just gotten comfy tennis shoes and they’ve always served me well.
Related that you didn’t mention, though: compression stockings. Not sexy, but neither are vericose veins. And they really do keep your feet and legs from feeling as tired. I used the knee-high ones and were always satisfied regardless of the brand.
I bought my books.
My university was super sensible and it was the same booklist for the entire 3 years (total 10 books I think) instead of just buying a book for a semester and then never using it again.
I bought a lot of books from The Book Depository and it was considerably cheaper than buying from my university book store.
I would definitely avoid buying from the campus book store and would look online at places like Amazon, Book Depository etc.
THIS PDF contains all my notes for my full university-level anatomy and physiology sequence (nursing prerequisite). Physiology starts on page 2, anatomy on page 2191. EXCELLENT physiology instructor / material. Also if you look at the top of page 1 of the PDF there is a link to a Google Drive folder that contains videos of all of his lectures to go along with the physiology lectures (pages 2 - 2190).
There are a lot of factors that go into a course. I've taken a "very difficult nursing course" and got a D (failing) with a professor that taught in a very poor and bland style. I retook the course with a professor that wanted her students to succeed and I ended up with an A, with minimal effort. I'd try to research:
Obviously there's more you could add to that list, but it seems you're more concerned about your learning rather than your grade (this is great by the way!) A&P is one of the more important courses in my opinion. It helps build on courses like Adult Health and is essential to understand the Pathophysiology of diseases.
OP you seem concerned about your education, and even if you're a bit behind in A&P II, you surely won't get lost because you had one poor teacher. And to finish my anecdotal thought, even having a teacher that failed me; I learned immensely.
Apologies for the scatterbrained post. I'd be more than happy to address anything more specifically, just shoot a reply!
Dropping Brainscape into your possibilities. It's similar to Anki but have been told a lot simpler to use. If you give it a try I'd love to know what you think. Good luck in nursing school!!
ATI TEAS Secrets Study Guide: TEAS 6 Complete Study Manual, Full-Length Practice Tests, Review Video Tutorials for the Test of Essential Academic Skills, Sixth Edition https://www.amazon.com/dp/1516703839/ref=cm_sw_r_u_apa_glt_fabc_QR25K26PXVEFXZZ9Y8X2
I would highly recommend this book. It’s a review guide for the HESI exit exam and NCLEX. It’s by the producers of the exam and it has a section for each class (med/surg, OB, peds, psych, etc). I didn’t buy this book until my last semester and I wish I would have had it sooner. I linked below the 6th edition but you could get the 5th edition and be fine too
https://www.amazon.com/HESI-Comprehensive-Review-NCLEX-RN-Examination/dp/0323582451
I agree than an app would be the most convenient.
However, if you don't want to use your phone or the hospital/clinical instructor is strict about students and cell phone use, I bought the Lippincott Pocket Drug guide. It's actually pocket sized unlike others and doesn't break the bank.
I bought the biggest size and the next size below it (12.8 x 9.0 in). The biggest one is great if you have massive books, and the one below it is a good size that is more portable if you want to read at the library or wherever. Both of them are sturdy and have adjustable angles. The arm holders are strong and have enough tension to hold the book in place to whatever page you want. Both of them were definitely worth the money for me as it not only saved me back and neck pain, but allowed me to complete work faster because I wasn't constantly crouching over to find the information on the page.
Can I make some suggestions?
1) Stop linking to external sites. Original content would be much better, even if you wrote the article.
2) Stop peddling your stuff. The NCLEX book for downloading is nice and all, but it's obvious you're getting a cut of the deal. Also, it's for sale at 9 dollars for downloading, but Amazon has the Kindle version for 4.99
3) Clickbaity titles aren't needed. >" How to Start IVs Like a Boss" You'll only get that with practice. Maybe an appropriate title "How to be more proficient at staring IVs" or something like that would be more fitting.
4) Your link about the NCLEX, specifically rumor #3 is wrong. The 265th question is a throwaway question. It doesn't matter if it's right or wrong. It's actually the 264th question that determines if you pass. It does so by either placing your final question ABOVE or BELOW that threshold.
Truthfully it's nothing special, and nothing you cannot find in this subreddit or AllNurses. I hope I didn't offend you, but the platform really only serves a purpose to give you money via ads and sales.
Nope, not as long as you keep your hands away from your face.
And I started having weird skin issues, too. Random contact dermatitis and definitely acne. I found sulfur masks the most helpful for acne. I also recently ordered this clay mask from Amazon and I think I like it.
I really truly found the coloring books helpful: https://www.amazon.com/Anatomy-Coloring-Book-Wynn-Kapit/dp/0321832019/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1516157744&sr=8-1&keywords=anatomy+coloring+book
However, dont fall for the trap I did and buy it all,
Flash cards from amazon - not helpful
Physiology coloring book - not helpful
Okay I found it. Read this review from Amazon "
Sean
Only book I used
May 20, 2012
Verified Purchase
Format: Paperback
This book has taught me so much! There are two ways to study for the NCLEX - do question after question and hope you'll learn something from them, essentially cramming every disease known to man in your brain. Or, read about how the questions are formed and what the writers of the exam are looking for - get to know the test maker so you can figure out what they choose is the best answer, even if you don't know the disease!"
Can't beat that . This guy is talking about the same thing I am. Just merely understanding the question.
Kaplan NCLEX-RN 2012-2013 Strategies, Practice, and Review WITH CD-ROM (Kaplan Nclex-Rn Exam)
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/1609785657/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_FVa.BbE3KR7ZK
I bought an IV practice kit. It was relatively cheap. Not anything like the real thing, but it gives me reps going through the motions. Edit: I bought this one: Wearable IV Practice Trainer Kit... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QJBVFZ3
There is definitely free ones that are great!!
My favorite by far is NCLEX RN by Estudyme studios (Android only)
Thorough rationales, repetition on the ones you don't get right, and a study calender to periodically review the questions you got wrong. Highly recommend it!
There's also a free app under the name "ATI TEAS VI". If I remember correctly, it's got about 1200 questions, all free. I had only found out about it a week before I had to take it. Lol
Personally, I felt these questions were harder than what I saw on the actual test, but better to over-prepare than under.
Seriously I cannot recommended practice questions enough. Loved this book and all the others ones — not sure what class you’re in now.
Google Translate is the gold standard.
iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/google-translate/id414706506?mt=8
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.translate&hl=en
I'm assuming you have a smartphone.
I can't say enough good things about Pocket Prep.
Here's the link for it on iOS: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/hesi-a2-exam-prep-2015/id526267675?mt=8
And Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.pocketprep.hesi&hl=en
It's like $20.
My understanding is leukocytes (WBC) stain purple, based on the picture quality I see specks (granules) so I would say leukocytes & granulocytes. Monocytes would be phagocytes but they are larger.wbc chart
I did a quick search and it looks like you can get it at Barnes and Noble. I ordered mine from the ATI website so I wasn't sure. The review of Chem in your current classes should help. Good luck on your test Friday!
NCLEX Mastery (an app) - free to install and answer some questions, but $30 to get the rest of the questions (it's worth it).
Saunders Comprehensive Review 6th Edition for the NCLEX-RN Examination (a book) - forgot the cost but who cares - it's vital, and all nursing students need it.
Exam Cram NCLEX-RN (another book) - this one is the down and dirty, with about 10 NCLEX style questions at the end of each section.
Do you have the Lewis Med Surg book? If so, go online to that website (Evolve) and do the chapter questions.
But I feel like that last one doesn't have enough questions at the application level - they are too easy.
Got one set up, ready for May 1st.
In the meantime, if you're looking for MFP friends, feel free to add me! My username's naeve01.
Also try http://www.abebooks.com/ and if you get really desperate you can even google the book name using the googlebooks drop down option on, some books are uploaded in full there too. You can view it page by page right on the google interface.
Something that helped me become less self-conscious was hearing that most people are too focused on themselves to notice all the things we notice/think about ourselves
The test-taking strategies section of our pinned post has a lot of good stuff so be sure to check there :)
In addition to what /u/Melodic-Dragonfruit7 mentioned, there is some review info here of the different concepts you might consider for test questions: https://prezi.com/p/omhkwyqrejmy/priority-setting-frameworks/ (sry its kind of ugly i found it on google)
and this has some more detailed explanation of test-taking strategies https://nurseslabs.com/20-nclex-tips-strategies-every-nursing-students-know/
You can add to your gift books website like z library https://z-lib.org/ It was hard for me to find the books i like in my specialty this website is free and wonderful as accessory to the gifts. If she knew congrats, if not then point for you.😁
Here is a link to it on amazon. It also comes with an online test bank of practice questions, which is great. https://www.amazon.com/dp/0323582451/ref=cm_sw_r_apa_glt_i_RXJD6N01681YE3RG7SMH
Edit: there are HESI strategy tips in little boxes throughout the book, those were great. I've only failed one HESI so far and it was maternity/peds. Reviewing this book brought my score from a 720 to a 955 on my 2nd try.
I don't know what brand he used, but one of my classmates covered his full sleeve with those UV sun protection / compression sleeve things. He wore white to match our scrub tops. I didn't, like, analyze the fabric up close to see if any color from the tattoos peeked through, but it served its purpose from a distance. Not that any of the nurses and probably most of the patients would have cared about him having tattoos, but...nursing school.
Another student with a half sleeve just wore a three quarter length shirt underneath her scrub top because she was prone to being cold anyway.
Correct. The same creators of the Hesi.
HESI Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN Examination https://www.amazon.com/dp/0323582451/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_N3MHKZT0K58MV7NT7MNS
There is a PN version as well. Good luck
This is what my teacher told us to get. I have cited it several times for other classes without issue
I recently bought this for my clinical tools: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DCNS9L5/ref=cm_sw_r_fm_apa_i_F5V-Fb4FBZ2AC
Pretty much everyone carrys a bag with them to clinical to carry things like a change of clothes, their supplies, books, water, etc.
I couldn't find the EXACT one I have, but this one is similar! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07V6CGGXV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_FgH-FbDCS2B0C (sorry, I'm on mobile!) I especially like the little flap in the middle that covers the stethoscope!
I'm in an ABSN and we are having a lot of reading, The lectures aren't great either. Practice questions help me the most.
Is this the nursing success book you referenced?
https://www.amazon.com/Pharmacology-Success-Applying-Critical-Thinking/dp/0803639058
These helped me as well. He has a way of breaking it down so that I could grasp the basic concept then go into more detail. I highly recommend them. And flash cards. I picked up a a set from a company called Mosby’s. Got them off Amazon. They had all the systems. I highlighted parts I needed to review as per my study guide (and notes) and took them with me everywhere.
Edit: These are the ones I got There’s also some fun coloring books that help with the physiology side you can get, if you’re into that.
Can't go wrong with the Littmann Classic III. I went with the IV because it was on sale on Amazon for $160 (Buy once cry once right?) and I figured why not, plus I wanted a unique Rainbow bell color. I didn't like my MDF and the Littmann IMO has better acoustics.
These are my trauma shears and I enjoy them. Great quality and super sharp.
Hey. For Patho, I turned my professor's outlines into Quizlet flashcards, would print those off, and glue them on notecards. I think everyone in my fam helped me flip through them and study. Also, I recorded each lecture on my phone (I may use MS Onenote for recording in the future) and relistened a few times and wrote notes to make sure I understood the material.
My classmate liked Osmosis (I didn't want to pay for the membership). She also met with a tutor twice a week to go over lecture notes.
I've heard good things about the "Pathophys Made Incredibly Easy" book. It's $19 to rent off Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Pathophysiology-Made-Incredibly-Easy-%C2%AE/dp/145114623X/ref=mp_s_a_1_10?keywords=pathophysiology+made+incredibly+easy&qid=1561857321&s=gateway&sr=8-10
Best of luck with your class 🌷🌷
I have these Cherokees WorkWear Professionals in a small:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077YSR94C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_WuikFb7E7922K
I also have a pair of Grey's Anatomy in a medium and they might be these (I got mine at a thrift store, so I'm not positive which style they are, but these look identical):
https://www.scrubsandbeyond.com/greys-anatomy-5-pocket-drawstring-scrub-pants.html
Both have a 31" inseam. I'm 5'4" tall and 135 lbs. and both fit well; not too tight or too loose. I found the Cherokee size chart to be accurate, too - my hips are 38" and it said I should get a small, which is equivalent to a size 6 - 8. I'm usually a 4 in most clothes, but vanity sizing be crazy. 🙄
I used Google calendar for the first 2 terms. Once we were online and I was at home, I preferred having a dry erase calendar on my wall next to my computer. Then I’d cross stuff off as I did it.
Quartet Combination Magnetic Whiteboard Calendar & Corkboard, 17" x 23" Combo Dry Erase White Board & Cork Bulletin Board, Perfect for Office, Home School Message Board, Wood Frame (22476) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008DQY6IK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_h3miFbEDBNNVF
I feel like a stethoscope is tricky. A lot of people like to pick theirs out. I would offer to pay money towards it if you are going the stethoscope route.
Some things you could put in a basket are compression socks, these are my favorite https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07Z3GK494/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_uoRfFbYPF5SAX
Pens... the good gel-ocity type ones that are really smooth. Highlighters, notebooks and loose leaf paper. A blank USB or 2. And a USB with the Mark Klimek audios on them : ) The #1 tool to survive nursing school is the MK audios.... search reddit.
Dry shampoo. Dove is a good brand, especially for long hair.
Coffee. Tea. Caffine pills. Something to get her through those books (especially the med surg one) without passing out.
A badge reel. There's super cute ones on Amazon or etsy. A stethoscope ID tag.. these range from $8-20 on etsy. They are very cute and prevent stethoscopes from growing legs and walking off.
A thermos or tumbler Don't go crazy, it does not have to be a yeti. This thermos brand is by far the best thermos that I have ever used. It takes hours for it to get cold. https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B004VFHKUS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_PARfFbPK0H98C
For a tumbler you could get cute ones and make it personalized (etsy or Amazon for around $15-20) or any double walled tumbler will do.
Get a journal. Some things in school you just need to keep to yourself but also need to get out. Protect her mental health and encourage her to use it!
There are a lot of unnecessary things that people will tell you to buy. I bought or was gifted a bunch of stuff and didn't even use it. These things I used every day of school and continued to use as an RN.
I have the Classic III and highly recommend it! Heart sounds and lung sounds can be heard clearly!
Other tools I recommend for a nursing student includes the following:
-A penlight -A watch with a second hand: I don’t know about her program, but my program did not allow smart watches. They only wanted watches with a second hand, which we can be used to count for respirations and pulses. Preferably get a watch that can be easy to clean. I have a Casio one that’s been holding up quite well and is easy to clean. Here’s a link: https://www.amazon.com/Casio-Womens-LRW200H-7BVCF-Sport-Watch/dp/B00791QYMQ?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_2 -A pack of black pens: She will be using them in lecture, clinical, and in her practice as a nurse. -A stethoscope case: Helpful to store her stethoscope, badge, pens, and penlight in! It helps being prepared for clinical -A badge reel -A foldable clipboard: This type of clipboard from Amazon is incredibly helpful for nursing students and nurses. You can secure your papers and easily fold this clipboard to fit your scrubs pocket! Here’s the link: https://www.amazon.com/Whitecoat-Clipboard-Lilac-Nursing-Edition/dp/B00GWSODHA
Sorry if the formatting is weird. I’m typing this up in mobile. I hope this helps! And congrats to your girlfriend :)
The memorization in A&P was the hardest part. If the class uses the textbook published by Pearson I cannot recommend the companion study app highly enough. The intro biology class will make a few of the concepts covered in A&P a little easier though, FWIW.
I personally haven't worked as a CNA, but several of my classmates have, and they all are doing fine.
Edit: the app is called MyLab/Mastering Study Modules. Android link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.knowledgefactor.pearson
These books were, and still are, my absolute bible for all things med surg. Highly recommend them if you can swing it. They are also accessible through the Elsevier app as an eBook too and I think you may be able to purchase a digital only version which would be more affordable.
I’d suggest doing yourself a favor and purchasing this book, you can get slightly older versions used for pretty cheap and will save you a lot of trouble.
https://www.amazon.com/Nursing-Care-Plans-Diagnoses-Interventions/dp/0323428185/ref=nodl_
There is a really long book full practice problems called, "The Nurse, the meds, the math" It specifically teaches dimensional analysis which eliminates any possibility for mistakes. I personally use a combination of dimensional analysis and ratio proportion, but that is HIGHLY not recommended for these exams. You do not have to do every practice problem in the book except the ones you are missing. Once you got the technique down move to the next chapter. https://www.amazon.com/Mulhollands-Nurse-Math-Meds-Calculations/dp/0323792014/ref=sr\_1\_2?crid=1HTT0Z1QQ90JA&keywords=the+nurse+the+meds+the+math&qid=1668230663&sprefix=the+nurse+the+meds+the+math%2Caps%2C117&sr=8-2&ufe=app\_d...
there’s a pharm coloring book that has a ton of pneumonics and is super helpful! i got it on amazon!
Gotcha, you want something that's going to be a little more nursing-focused. My micro was a general micro too, but I found this on google. Could maybe be helpful?
Edit: FWIW, my general micro was more than sufficient for nursing school. In any micro course you'll learn about cellular respiration and bacterial and viral replication, and that's really all you need to take into your nursing program. I don't know that a nursing-specific book is worth it. Just like, my opinion man.
As somebody who wears glasses; COVID has turned me into a contacts person for all clinical situations as I am already a sweaty and kind of quirky person so my glasses fogging up just made things worse. With needing glasses I would 100% say face shield as its much more comfortable to wear with glasses than goggles are
I'm not sure if this is allowed, I also don't know about your financial situation, but I highly recommend buying these anti-fog wipes for glasses: https://www.amazon.com/OptiPlus-Anti-Fog-Lens-Wipes/dp/B085VDQYS4/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIr7mC58jd-gIVELjICh3ZpAZZEAAYASAAEgLz2vD_BwE&hvadid=558599921471&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9002253&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=17189575438033008172&hvtargid=kwd-1456245974129&hydadcr=2209_9910725&keywords=anti-+fog+wipes+for+glasses&qid=1665676587&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIxLjQzIiwicXNhIjoiMC45NCIsInFzcCI6IjAuOTYifQ%3D%3D&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&smid=A3RTUL9VYYEOZA
My part-time job is at a dr's office so I wear my glasses as contacts aren't my favorite and one time when my glasses were fogging a patient actually gave me one of her wipes to use. I was skeptical, but they actually work extremely well and I highly recommend to anybody that wears glasses and has to wear a mask
Spend a lot of time on A&P as others have said. We really do use that a lot. I recommend you review with this book.
If you were to ask this in an EMS sub, everyone would respond saying that the Dale Dubin book, Rapid Interpretation of EKGs, is all you need.
I would recommend Rapid Interpretation of EKG’s 6th Edition. https://www.amazon.com/dp/0912912065/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_9WZC5NS0J56FHBAHF600 This book is amazing and breaks it down to really easily understand EKG’s and the heart itself.
Get this book if you don’t already have access to it on Elsevier. It makes care plans so easy.
I remember reading I Wasn't Strong Like This When I Started Out by Lee Gutkind when I was in school, and I found it pretty impactful.
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https://www.amazon.com/Wasnt-Strong-Like-This-Started/dp/1937163121
For assessments, the biggest thing was making sure I hit all the important points along the way. The most useful tool for me was a little wooden artist's drawing mannequin (like the one I linked below). It has moving limbs and helped me run through the sequence of a head-to-toe like a dream. Scheduled lots of sim lab time for everything else...
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You can try a smell blocker. This is what I bought for adult health clinical since I was worried about poop smells, also I am a someone who vomits if someone vomits in front of them. Honestly, foodwise, just make sure you eat a healthy breakfast, snacks if you need them, and if you feel nauseated let your preceptor know. Its not much different from any other clinical.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SH4FSRB?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_4J9EBB8N2RSKD5AQCJ4J
I swear by these. Good enough quality to use a while, but cheap enough that I dont mind if I have to throw it away if it gets dirty.
i did this back in february for my bday and i got these little IV blood bags that came with labels and everything!
Blood Bags for Drinks, WYNK 10 IV... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01NH33J19?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
My daughter is 5‘3“ and under 100 pounds and got these in an extra small. They fit great and are super cute! Also, the joggers will stay up on you even if they are a little long you won’t trip on them.
Adar Pro Modern Athletic Scrub Set for Women - Modern V-Neck Scrub Top & Yoga Jogger Scrub Pants https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0864NZX2C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_K9YFDC6V72ETZKCZ94CT?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Nurse Need Shots Too Shot Glass, Funny Glass Gift for Women and Male Nurses Mom Sister or Friend Present for Nursing School Student Graduation Nurses Day Birthday Party 2 oz (2, 1.97 x 2.36 Inches) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B093PZK2GF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_1ZVBT1E8VJ8WKN579S0Y?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I would buy a text book. It will have exactly what you need to know. This is what I use and it's great.
Hole's Human Anatomy & Physiology https://www.amazon.com/dp/1260265226/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_JSQJ0FXWK5XG3F5C8T72
Make your own flashcards. Make a list of drugs you don't know about that you run into at clinical. Research and study later.
I keep this on me at every clinical.
2021 Lippincott Pocket Drug Guide for Nurses https://smile.amazon.com/dp/197515889X/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_A90NRARP6Z4FTCWR8C0Y
If you buy stuff with smile at Amazon, a portion of it goes to a non profit of your choice. Don't buy from regular Amazon, just smile.amazon.com
If you have the ability to order a book from Amazon, get a HESI A2 entrance exam prep book asap. Your exam will most likely cover basic reading comprehension, spelling, grammar, vocabulary, math and A&P. The exam book also covers basic chemistry, biology and a few other topics in case your school tests on them. The book gives excellent step-by-step refreshers while still being succinct and includes practice questions and answers. I used the same book for entrance and the final and aced everything. Edition 4 or 5.
Admission Assessment Exam Review https://www.amazon.com/dp/0323353789/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_C5JY8BE8WTHM73ZVAQ82?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
This top has the BEST flank pocket. The bonus pocket is on thr right back hip, and it large enough for a folded paper/report sheet/phone and pager combo etc. I've always used it in lieu of heavy items in my scrub pants.
It's returnable, so maybe see if it fits your clipboard?
Just 8.5 x 11 (a U.S. sized paper), with 4 squares to the inch. The ones I use are spiral bound (bound at the top), with perforations. In fact this is the exact thing I use:
https://smile.amazon.com/Silverpoint-Top-Quadrille-Protective-51070/dp/B003I869AG/
Oh gosh, I took the TEAS after being out of school for 15 years. I used this book to study for maybe two weeks? ATI TEAS Secrets Study Guide:... https://www.amazon.com/dp/151674604X?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share It’s fair to be nervous, but don’t let that stop you! I FINALLY had my first in-person class (thanks COVID) and most of the people in my class look to be in their late 20s and 30s a couple outliers look much older. It’s all cool.
Review your A&P, and also get a start on really understanding fluids and electrolytes. Don’t worry about memorizing values bc your school may want you to know different ones, but get a good grasp on the general concepts and you’ll be a step ahead.
I like this book Fluids & Electrolytes Made Incredibly Easy (Incredibly Easy! Series®) https://www.amazon.com/dp/1975125061/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_VBQQ403RAGNHW2Y8V9YT
I bought these https://www.target.com/p/women-39-s-strap-watch-a-new-day-8482-gold/-/A-52918071
CHARMKING Compression Socks for Women & Men Circulation (8 Pairs)15-20 mmHg is Best Support for Athletic Running,Cycling https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072PT1LVC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_QEV0DTP1P0CS1ETY44KE?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I used one for a bit, after a semester I gave up on it because re-listening to lectures didn't help me as much as taking better notes and going through those and the book. Iirc I had the one linked below.
Wow it really sucks they'd make you cover such a small, innocuous tattoo... especially when most methods of covering it (bandaids, make up) are infection control issues and having bare tattooed skin isn't one. Totally nonsensical.
Maybe bandaids like this will stay on your hand through washes without being in your way too much.
I'm very glad my program doesn't care about my half sleeve tattoo! It would be a bitch to keep covered, hahah.
I'm pretty sure that's the latest edition. That's one of the books I used. I also used:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1260462390/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
One of them explained better, but that could be dependent on the person.
I also recommend to take the ATI practice tests online.
Erasable pens! Love them!
PILOT FriXion Clicker Erasable, Refillable & Retractable Gel Ink Pens, Fine Point, Assorted Color Inks, 10-Pack Pouch (11336) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07D9Z7GYL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_4TVJBSSSBXPQEV7HZ56Z?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Different colored highlighters, colored pens and lots of sticky notes/tabs. And for clinical three little must haves are a clip board, small black sharpie that can clip on to badge reel and a pen that has multi colors in one. pen