I think our clinical instructor was born a little “smarter than the rest” and I mean that with the utmost respect and admiration of the sheer working, functioning, and brute force knowledge in that beautiful mind. The evidence suggests that he is not the common “98% hard work needed” case. Maybe I’m wrong, but I don’t believe so. It’s hard for him to understand how normal people forget things, and how we can’t remember what we should know. I made a few absolutely stupid mistakes today; like thinking I set my folder down and forgot it when that was not the case. It’s embarrassing to have a completely stupid memory lapse….. I know I’m tired, and have personal health issues going on, but who doesn’t? Maybe if I change my diet, if I read more, memorize more, and sleep more consistently I can improve my mind; but I’ll never have a gifted mind. What is realistic for me is to struggle tooth and nail, put in the 98% hard work, and pass these classes; still by the grace of God.
On top of the tests and assignments coming up, I have to review and relearn all the main drugs, including mechanism of action, review and learn cardiac rhythms, know the oxygenation process completely, review lung sounds, and memorize all steps to these new procedures/ assessments. We are learning disease indicators, indications, contraindications of treatment, in depth care plans, and other broad spectrum focuses…….
Wouldn’t it be nice to drop out?
Today was our first day in the hospital, and we got the grand tour. No real patient care yet, but honestly I’m ok with minimal student nurse care taking…. I won’t go into my rationals at this time.
I’m going to sleep. I speny a few moments with the family after clinicals today, then off to McDonald’s to use their WiFi and study with a friend. Nursing students really need a good support system to make it through. Whether you’re single, married, or (especially) have kids, you need friends/family backing you; if at all possible. I have a good support system, but I might need a miracle. – a Miracle
The RN journey 