Tips & Strategies for Year 4

My number one tip for you is to write your NCLEX immediately. Preferably before you walk across the stage during graduation day. The reasons for this are:

There’s a big difference knowing you have written and passed your NCLEX as you walk across the stage. You will feel that much better knowing that that’s all behind you.
Some of you will orientate and start working on the specific unit where you applied to work (and where you likely completed your final practicum) before you even graduate. As with starting any new job or a new career, this process will be busy. And there will also be a big learning curve for at least the first few months to a year. Now imagine trying to study for your NCEX during this process…and on top of all that, the stress.
Further, some of you will accept a full-time line right away…and I understand that you want to start making some $$$Money! But the longer you put off writing your NCLEX, the more you will start to lose momentum and lose your motivation to study.
I get it, I was in your shoes once and I have walked your path. The last thing you want to do when you wake up and get on with your daily routine, is to study all day. So my suggestion is, keep the momentum going and start your preparation and studying during your final semester.
I know that getting your Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree is definitely without a doubt, an accomplishment by itself. I agree with you 100%. The nursing program was one of the hardest experiences I’ve ever had to go through in my life. At the same time, it’s also one of the most rewarding and greatest accomplishments of my life.

But without your full registered nursing license you cannot practice (although you will be allowed to work as a new grad RN with a provisional license).

An analogy I like to use is, think of it like going through a driver’s training school to learn how to drive. And then once you've completed the program, you put your road test off for another 6-12 months. To me that’s crazy, why would you wait so long to do your road test? So again, one last time, Write Your NCLEX Immediately.

During your final practicum - The majority of you will complete a final practicum within an acute care setting (i.e. med-surg). You now need to consolidate all of the nursing knowledge and skills you have accumulated throughout the last four years and essentially put that into practice. As well as implement all the strategies I've talked about.

Your head to toe assessments needs to be proficient
You need to be able to prioritize patient assignments according to their acuity
Be able to detect/anticipate and communicate changes in your patient(s) status
Provide care to a minimum of 5 patients
Have a solid base and understanding of the different medication classes
You need to have excellent oral and written communication skills
Yo need to be Super Organized
Apply the 30min rule - you need to show up at least 30min before your shift
You need to bring a Winning Attitude each and every time you step foot on the unit
Be a team player - be the first person to offer help

The Wealthy Nurse