In nursing school, students should become intimately familiar with basic scientific principles in biology, chemistry and even mathematics. Advanced anatomy and physiology (A&P) courses are paramount to a nurse's education in addition to the basic A&P courses commonly prerequisite to admission. Students must demonstrate a competency in critical thinking, technical and communication skills as applicable to the nursing profession. Graduates of nursing programs should have a solid background in the basics of pharmacology, sociology and neuroscience as well.
Students should learn to develop problem-solving skills and crucial evidence-based decision-making abilities in a clinical setting. Nursing school should prepare students to manage the real-life stresses of the health-care industry as caregivers. Much emphasis is placed on training nursing students to deal with every type of patient care issue, from mental health to emergency life-saving procedures. A core objective of nursing educators is to develop ethical and responsible nurses.
Nursing students must learn to apply the skills gained from their coursework to a live hospital setting. Clinical experience is highly emphasized in the nursing curriculum, encouraging students to learn through observing and experiencing the daily situations that confront health-care providers. The abilities to listen, respond and interact with patients and colleagues are key objectives in educating effective and compassionate nurses.
The demanding schedule of health-care professionals is a serious challenge that students must be prepared for before entering the industry. Another core objective of a nurse's training is to develop the discipline and self-awareness that will aid in balancing their highly demanding jobs with a healthful way of living. Developing consistent sleeping patterns, eating correctly, communicating well and taking time for yourself are crucial tools that nursing students should learn in nursing school.