Things you didn't learn in nursing school

12 Share your thoughts



Nurses, please share your stories of things you wished you learned in nursing school.

also shared this on the allnurses.com facebook page Last edit by brian on Feb 13, '13
I wonder if anyone owns the full 12-volume set?

That seldom are things as perfect as they had to be in order to pass the tests, particularly skills check offs.

How to pass meds to 26 patients in 1 hour.

Didn't learn that nurses are also pharmacist, respiratory therapist, clinical techs, physical therapists, cosmetologist, environmental services and the list goes on. Apparently we do it all....

How quickly/continuously medical science advances/changes, and how much time, effort and expense is involved in trying to keep up with the changes from the point of view of nursing practice.

How to navigate, adapt and keep your spirits high in nursing? I know there are many subjects that discussed about it. But nothing can really prepare a nurse outside. There's too many factors. Too many people to navigate. We have to be flexible but not a pushover. Assertive and not aggressive. Basically, how to roll with the bull.

What I didn't learn in nursing school was that I only learned enough to get me to the point where I could START to learn what I would need to know to work as a nurse.Have often referred to the Newly-Minted Nurse as having a License to Learn.

I wish there was a clearly written and up to date book somewhere explaining it all!

When I graduated from nursing school, I was basically licensed to apply bandaids. The real learning comes with experience. Having a 6 hour clinical that included a one hour lunch break, 30 minutes and pre and post conference, did not prepare us what soever.

Quote from elprupI wish there was a clearly written and up to date book somewhere explaining it all!

"One time use only" is a term used very liberally in the home care setting.

"Whatever works" is just fine, so long as you are certain it's sterile.Also, never be without your Kelly clamp and long-handled bandage scissors.