Prepare for Licensure and Transition to Professional Practice
Throughout the semester I quickly realized that my original SMART goal I had set out to achieve may not be as easy to meet as I had thought. I had originally planned to study for 4 hours each week while in clinical, but this goal was a bit too ambitious for me. When I made this goal, I didn’t consider how much time my off-campus jobs, tutoring, and other assignments would take out of my free time. Even though I didn’t spend 4 hours a week dedicated to studying for the NCLEX, many of the assignments I completed were helping me prepare for the NCLEX, which I also didn’t anticipate. To improve my outcomes on each ATI assessment, I tried to complete many of my ATI assessments in 25 question increments. I found that when I did this, I was able to stay focused on the assessment. Due to time constraints, these small increments weren’t always possible, so I would also utilize a quiet, distraction free environment to complete my ATI assessments. I would turn my phone on silent or remove it from the room so I wouldn’t be distracted by any noises during the assessment. I also would turn on my fan if I was taking my exam at home, because the white noise helped me to focus on the task at hand.
Regarding the content gaps as evidenced by my assessments, I would review each question on the ATI remediations using the ATI textbook. Reading the applicable paragraphs helped me to understand why the questions I answered were incorrect. I also tried to complete my remediations close to the date I took the test. I found that when I did this, I was able to recall more of the questions on the test and could see where I went wrong. When the ATI resources didn’t provide a clear answer to certain diseases or disorders I was confused on, I would utilize my textbooks from previous classes to find out more information about them. This would often help fill any gaps in my learning.
Throughout the semester, I had to utilize my self-care strategies to avoid becoming overwhelmed or stressed. For example, I enjoy going for walks on the beach near my house. Sometimes, I had to make the time for this when I was too overwhelmed with assessments or coursework. By making time for my own self-care, I was able to come back to my assignments and really focus on them. Throughout the semester, I also became better at saying no to any additional plans when I needed extra rest or time to relax. This was an essential adjustment for me because I have a hard time saying no to plans or obligations even if I don’t have time for them. By learning how to say no to extra plans, I had a better work-life balance as a result.
I will apply the test taking strategies and work-life balance skills I have obtained this semester by utilizing them while studying for the NCLEX. By studying in smaller increments and in a quiet space, I will maximize my study time and learning. I also will make sure to leave myself time for activities and mindfulness practices so I can be present during my studying time. In professional practice, this will also help me stay engaged in my job and unit.
