Preparing for Nursing School: A Guide for Teen Aspirants

Considering a career in nursing? If you're in your teens and planning to start nursing school soon, there are several steps you can take to prepare and set yourself up for success. In this article, we’ll explore three crucial areas to focus on: brushing up on sciences, sharpening your math skills, and gaining patient care experience.

Brush Up on Sciences

The foundation of nursing lies in a strong understanding of the scientific principles that underpin healthcare. While you're still in high school, it's a good idea to revisit key subjects such as biology, anatomy, and physiology. In particular, the cardiovascular and respiratory systems are critical areas to focus on. Textbooks and online resources are valuable tools for refreshing your knowledge. By familiarizing yourself with these subjects, you will have a head start when you dive into the more complex topics you’ll encounter during your nursing studies.

Sharpen Your Math Skills

Accuracy is of paramount importance in the nursing field, especially when it comes to dosage calculations. These calculations require a solid understanding of math fundamentals, including basic operations, fractions, decimals, percentages, and med-conversions. Dedicate time to practice these skills to ensure you’re comfortable with the type of math you’ll need to perform as a nurse. Practice exercises, online challenges, and tutoring can greatly enhance your fluency in these areas.

Gain Patient Care Experience

Gaining real-world experience in patient care can be invaluable. Consider volunteering at a hospital, clinic, or senior center. This exposure will not only give you a better understanding of the healthcare environment but also help build your confidence in interacting with patients. Many hospitals and clinics offer volunteer opportunities that allow you to shadow nurses, participate in patient care activities, and observe the day-to-day operations of a healthcare setting. Additionally, consider participating in neural aide or LPN programs offered by local community hospitals or BOCES (Board of Cooperative Educational Services) programs. These programs can provide you with a deeper insight into patient care and nursing.

It’s important to note that while patient care experience is not necessarily a requirement for nursing school admission, it can significantly enhance your application. It demonstrates your commitment to the field, your ability to work in a healthcare setting, and your approach to patient care.

Conclusion

While some may express concerns about the challenges of nursing, it's important to consider the rewarding career path it offers. Nursing requires passion, resilience, and a deep commitment to helping others. By taking these proactive steps before starting your nursing studies, you’ll be better prepared to navigate the rigors of the program and excel in your future career.

Keywords: nurse preparation, nursing career, nursing school prerequisites