Ensuring Nursing Students’ Success

by Rose Morton, RN, MSN, NHA, PN
MODRN Nurse

Why is it so important to decrease the attrition rate in schools of nursing? For one thing, we are all going to need healthcare at some point in our life. With the current nursing shortage, we need every nurse we can get. It is in everyone’s best interests to help nursing students move successfully toward licensure.

Nursing students need help learning to balance school, work, and family. Most students feel overwhelmed at least initially. It is preferable, but not realistic for many, that students not work at all while attending nursing school. Those who must work should try to keep their work hours at a minimum.

Feeling a sense of belonging and friendship in the nursing program and in the classroom is another essential ingredient for students’ success. Using peer mentors as student role models can facilitate a level of comfort for students. A good idea is to pair an upperclassman with a lower classman and have them meet at specific times during the semester. At times, students might need advice or guidance from a peer mentor; other times, they just need a good listener.

Another strategy for students’ success is to use technology in the learning process, not just in the classroom, but by having students complete computerized testing outside of class. Most nursing students are computer savvy and find this a good learning experience.

Nursing faculty can also help by identifying high-risk students early and recommending tutoring and other remedial strategies for those students. Instructors should recommend that students make optimal use of the licensure examination preparation programs provided for them and that they seek additional preparation products as needed. Peer-assisted learning, typically in the form of small groups of students studying together, can be very beneficial.

What can students do to optimize their learning experiences? From their very first day of class through graduation, students can help ensure their own success by applying the following strategies:

>Participate in relaxing activities, like meditation. If your instructors incorporate stress management and anxiety reduction into your course, try the techniques they suggest.

>To reduce test anxiety, do not “cram” for exams; instead, look to peer mentors or instructors for help developing effective study skills. Study in the library whenever possible, use time between classes for studying, and use learning resources effectively.

>Use a planner to set aside time for each assignment and to keep track of due dates. When participating in a study group, make sure to prepare an outline of the study time so that everyone stays on track. You can plan time for breaks, snacks, and socializing on your outline.

>Do not procrastinate; last- minute efforts usually create more stress. Develop a routine by setting aside study time each day. Read or rewrite lecture notes just after the lecture, or at least the same day, while the lecture is still fresh in your mind.

>Expect setbacks; they are part of every challenge that is worth mastering. Nursing is a profession with the potential for enormous personal and professional growth and satisfaction. Try your best to stay positive and motivated, and keep your eye on your ultimate goal. You will become a nurse.

Rose Morton, RN, MSN, NHA (licensed nursing home administrator), PN (parish nurse), is assistant director of the traditional undergraduate nursing program at Mountain State University, Beckley, WV.