The nursing program is incredibly stressful. There are projects to complete, skills to practice, and more than enough tests and quizzes to take. I am four weeks away from surviving the first semester and the stress is still exhausting. I have two online quizzes this weekend, the medication administration skill check off Tuesday, a presentation in my nursing research class and a test to submit next Wednesday.

 

There was a point in which I reached a new low, it was during midterms, and I just broke down. There was too much to do, too much work, and too little time. I would go to school and work, get home and start studying. I had no time for myself. I had to quit one of the part time jobs I had; my nursing skills instructor ordered me that I had to quit. Best advice I have ever had.

 

I am going to have to cope with this stress until 2014, when I finally graduate and take the NCLEX.

 

Right now some of my coping mechanisms are:

1. Humor- Nursing is a serious profession, but having a giggle every so often keeps your moral up. I have a tendency of blurting out funny comments; this helps me laugh and destresses me out.
2. Utilize Medical Terminology Out of Class- using medical terminology out of class by having a job or volunteering at a medical institution reinforces and adds to what you learn in class.
3. Texting Abbreviations- I use this for humor. I sometimes will text my boyfriend a general request or comment and incorporate a medical abbreviation like PRN (as needed).
4. Working Out- When there actually is time available, working out gets my mind out of my current situation.
5. Day Off- Take a day during the week like Sunday (if possible) to get out of the house and not do anything regarding studying or homework.
6. TV- Good ol’ TV is super relaxing except for when the only things on are Spanish programming, news and the Big Bang Theory…then it becomes a stressor. I always find the Maury show a destressor; when you are feeling down, it’s always better to make fun of people on that show.

 

If you are/want to enter the field of nursing, be ready to take on the stress that will accompany it.