Nurse standing in front of a hospital bed

How to Prepare for Nursing School

Tips for Surviving Nursing School: Expectations, Requirements, and Challenges

Nurse standing in front of a hospital bed

Nurses play a vital role in the well-being of their patients. They are selfless individuals who strive to help others improve their health and overall quality of life. Whether pursuing your dream of becoming a nurse through a diploma or degree program, nursing school can be a challenging experience for students.

However, that doesn’t mean your dream isn’t worth pursuing! On the contrary, many have described the nursing profession as one of the most important and fulfilling careers in the medical field. To help you jumpstart your goals, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide that will give you all the tips, tricks, and resources you’ll need to enter nursing school confidently.

If you’re still looking to apply to a nursing school, click here to learn more about the BSN program at Provo College.

Nurses with a BSN degree can also apply to our Master’s Entry Program (MEPN) in Nursing.

Why Become a Nurse?

Many would argue that few careers offer as many advantages as nursing. Nursing has significant financial benefits and job stability, and the work is exciting and fulfilling. Nurses quite literally hold their patients’ lives in their hands. In addition to making a difference, nursing is an in-demand profession, so you likely won’t struggle to find a job after graduation.

Nurses can also enter the workforce relatively quickly compared to other medical professions. Of course, picking the right program that fits your schedule, timing, and availability is vital.

Find the Right Nursing Program for You

Once you’ve decided to pursue nursing, the next step is finding the best program for you. There are several questions to consider, such as the program’s length, location, and curriculum.

Perhaps most importantly, you need to decide the type of nurse you’d like to become: a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or a Registered Nurse (RN). This decision will dictate whether you obtain a nursing diploma or a degree. To become an RN, you’ll also need to choose between an associate degree and a bachelor’s degree.

(Learn more about the field of nursing by exploring our list of Highest-Paid Nursing Jobs)

Not all nursing programs are the same. Some programs may be held in a traditional classroom setting at a college or university, while others are entirely online or in a hybrid format. Virtual platforms provide flexibility for working professionals or full-time caretakers. This is why knowing your strengths, limitations, and needs about how you learn best is critical.

While searching for the right program, study each institution’s website and contact the program directors. Here are some sample questions that you may want to ask:

+ What are the tuition costs and financial aid options?

+ What are the academic prerequisites?

+ How long does it take to complete the program?

+ What specific topics are covered?

+ What clinical rotations or externships are included?

+ What percent of the program’s students/graduates pass the NCLEX exam?

How to Get Into Nursing School?

Each nursing program will have its requirements and prerequisites. Check the school’s website or speak with an admissions representative.

Stethoscope next to a stack of textbooks

Bachelor’s Degree

Nursing programs usually have courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, psychology, and other social and behavioral sciences. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program typically takes 3-4 years to complete. They focus primarily on science, biology, communications, and critical thinking. Employers usually require a bachelor’s degree or higher for management positions or leadership roles.

Associate Degree

An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is another excellent option for aspiring nurses working on a shorter timetable. While an ADN requires less time than a BSN degree, it takes more time to complete than a vocational or practical nursing program. To obtain an associate degree, you’ll need to complete about two years of study at a community college or a vocational school.

ADN courses typically include basic nursing skills, anatomy and physiology, emergency care, nutrition, and more. As with many healthcare degrees, an ADN program combines hands-on training with classwork.

Diploma Program

Without any previous training or professional experience, aspiring Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) must complete a practical nursing program to become licensed professionals.

These formal programs may differ from state to state but generally include hands-on exercises and clinical experience. It usually takes about one year to complete a program, making them an ideal choice for those who want to enter the workforce as soon as possible.

What Are the Nursing School Prerequisites?

All nursing programs have prerequisites. Make sure you pick the right program for you and your situation. To give you a better idea, here are some general nursing program requirements that you may come across:

  • Career planning session and admissions interview
  • Submit proof of high school education or equivalent
  • Entrance assessment test
  • Admissions application
  • Enrollment agreement
  • Financing arrangements and, if applicable, all documents needed to obtain an official award letter for Federal Student Aid

The TEAS Exam

You may need to complete a Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). It typically includes the following subtests:

  • The math subtest covers whole numbers, metric conversions, fractions and decimals, algebraic equations, percentages, and ratio/proportion.
  • The reading subtest covers paragraph comprehension, passage comprehension, and inferences/conclusions.
  • The English subtest measures knowledge of punctuation, grammar, sentence structure, and contextual words.
  • The science portion of the exam covers science reasoning, science knowledge, biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology, basic physical principles, and general science.

Applicants for the BSN program at Provo College must pass the TEAS exam. They have three chances to complete the test successfully:

First TEAS attempt

  • Applicants scoring 58.7 or higher may be admitted to the BSN program.
  • Applicants scoring 58.6 or below are not admitted to the program but may retake the exam after seven days.

Second TEAS attempt

  • Applicants scoring 58.7 or higher may be admitted to the BSN program.
  • Applicants scoring from 47.0 to 58.6 may be admitted to the BSN program but must take ATI’s SmartPrep online course during the first semester.
  • The ATI SmartPrep course strengthens Reading, Math, Science, and English skills to prepare students for the program’s second semester.
  • Applicants scoring 46.9 or below are not admitted to the program but may retake the TEAS exam three months or more from their first attempt.
  • These applicants are encouraged but not required to take the SmartPrep course or prepare similarly before their next attempt.

Third TEAS attempt

  • A third attempt at the TEAS requires completion of the ATI SmartPrep® Students that reattempt the TEAS following ATI SmartPrep® must achieve a minimum composite score of 58.7%to remain enrolled in the BSN program.
  • Students who achieve a TEAS composite score below 58.7% are withdrawn from the program.

Healthcare professional holding a syringe

Immunization Requirements

At Provo College, the clinical and immunization requirements for the BSN program help lower risks and ensure the safety of your instructors and peers. More specifically, students will rotate at a clinical site requiring documentation of certain immunizations.

Below are just some of the required vaccinations.

  • TdaP within the past ten years.
  • MMR (two vaccines at least one month apart) or titers proving immunity.
  • Twinrix or Hepatitis B completed series or titer within the last ten years. Provide documentation that the Hepatitis B series is complete within eight months following the first injection.
  • Negative Two Step TB (PPD)within the last year. If previously tested positive, negative chest x-ray within past two years, or QuntiFERONGold Test. TB test, chest x-rays, and QuantiFERON tests must be renewed annually.
  • Varicella Titer showing immunity or vaccination (2 doses if given after age 13).

Is Nursing School Hard?

You may be wondering: How hard is nursing school compared to other degrees? First, consider your natural gifts, personality type, interests, and motivations. If you have a strong desire to serve individuals in your community, have an aptitude for science, and can work in fast-paced environments, you will likely thrive in nursing school AND a nursing career.

Remember that failing a test or class isn’t the end of the world. You can always try again. Success isn’t measured by failure but by your ability to get back up. Although exams or clinical simulations may be intense, remember that your program is designed to prepare you for the field.

So, how hard is nursing school? It depends on who you ask. Some find it difficult, while others find it very manageable. All nursing students face challenges in their programs, but those who don’t give up succeed.

Of course, some tips and tricks help, too!

Nursing School Tips

Thousands of students complete their training every year. We have full confidence that you can be one of them, too! Although there’s a lot of information to process, many nursing school study tips are at your disposal.

Here are just some study tips for nursing students.

  • Organization is Key – Anyone can be organized if they put in time and effort. Establish order with your notes, routine, calendar, and workspace. You’ll appreciate it later!
  • Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help – If you’re struggling, one of your classmates may be able to help you with the assignment. Later, when they get stuck, you can return the favor. You could also put a study group together to help one another get through coursework.
  • Take Regular Breaks – It may sound counterproductive, but you will likely do more harm than good without regular breaks. You must let your brain recharge and learn at peak energy levels. To do this, take one scheduled break every hour or so.
  • Aim for Comprehension, Not Memorization – Although it may help you pass an exam, memorization won’t always be good enough on the job. To succeed as a nurse, you must also comprehend the material. Practice by explaining concepts in your own words rather than just regurgitating formal definitions.
  • Set Realistic Goals – You know yourself better than anyone else does. Because of this, you know your study limits, preferred learning style, etc. Also, it’s better to aim for gradual progress, not perfection. This is a marathon, so pace yourself.
  • Remember to Reward Yourself – This one is essential! Rewards can help your mental state as well as your workflow. Once you’ve set your study goals, enjoy some time off guilt-free.

Lastly, take advantage of the resources at your campus. Several experienced people, study aids, labs, and other tools are available if you’re struggling with your studies.

Close up of woman using a calculator and laptop

How to Study for the NCLEX-RN Exam

What Is the NCLEX Exam?

The NCLEX-RN stands for “National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses.” This exam will draw on your nursing classes and training. Ultimately, it will determine whether you’re ready to start working as a licensed nurse.

(Those who want to become Licensed Practical Nurses take another version of the exam: the NCLEX-PN. You can learn more about it here)

(You can also visit our comprehensive NCLEX-RN Study Guide)

The NCLEX-RN consists mainly of multiple-choice questions that measure how you respond to different medical situations. In addition, there may also be questions that include graphics, fill-in-the-blank questions, “hot spots,” and drag-and-drop questions.

Below are some of the featured topics in the NCLEX-RN:

  • Physiological adaptation
  • Management of care
  • Reduction of Risk Potential
  • Safety and Infection Control
  • Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies
  • Basic Care and Comfort
  • Psychosocial Integrity
  • Health Promotion and Maintenance

Tips to Pass the NCLEX Exam

Wondering how to pass nursing school exams or just how to study for nursing school? Good news: we’ve compiled some more tips for you.

  • Early Bird Gets the Worm – Like nursing school, preparing for the NCLEX exam is a marathon—not a sprint. Study early, study often, and study in advance. Take advantage of practice tests and other resources at your school.
  • Schedule Your Test Sooner Than Later – It may sound obvious, but the longer you wait, the more likely you will forget what you’ve learned. Some have said two to three weeks after graduation may be enough time to prepare.
  • Complete Practice Exams – One of the best ways to prepare for what’s ahead is to experience the exam through practice tests. Check out the NCSBN’s practice exams to give yourself a head start.
  • Make Sure You Get Enough Sleep – Resist the urge to study last minute. Sleeping seven to eight hours will help your brain operate at peak performance. Besides, some studies have shown that cramming for a test doesn’t work.
  • Look for Logical Choices in the Exam – Pay close attention to the wording of each question. For instance, if you see absolute words like always, never, none, only,” then carefully examine those answers. Just because an answer might apply to some or even most situations doesn’t necessarily mean it applies to all situations.

Start Your Nursing Journey Today

Many nursing schools offer high-quality programs, so fulfilling your educational needs is relatively easy. These vocational nursing schools provide students with the knowledge and skills to succeed in their future professions.

Once you enroll in a nursing program, you will only be one step away from earning your license and building a satisfying career in the healthcare field. You can obtain your license and pursue your dream job with hard work.

Click here to learn more about the BSN program at Provo College today!