Nursing school teaches us an abundance of facts, some of which we may have long since forgotten. In navigating the complex nursing school environment, students are forced to develop clear, critical thinking. Problem solving is integral to our nursing practice. And, this technique can be extended to almost every life problem. In the sandbox of nursing school, fledgling nurses learn to apply critical thinking in groups, as they strategize alongside diverse personalities and work together for the common cause of patient recovery and safety. In order to survive nursing (and life), nursing school teaches us to set aside our differences and work together as teams.

I have noticed that nursing schools generally teach three “life” lessons.

1. Deal with it. Nursing school may be the first time some individuals are forced to develop strong coping mechanisms. To survive the academic, physical and emotional rigors of nursing school, nursing students must learn to function calmly under pressure.

2. Never, ever, let them see you panic. Students must find alternatives to pushing the panic button, no matter how tired, stressed, overwhelmed or insecure they may feel. However shaky they feel on the inside, nursing students must learn to appear confident on the outside. They are continually reminded to “fake it till you make it,” or to “just walk the walk.” This does not mean that students (or nurses) should ever perform procedures that they do not know how to do. It does mean that nurses need to develop confidence in their own nursing abilities. We all know that confidence comes with experience; but it’s hard for a timid nurse to earn a patient’s trust. For this reason, nursing schools provide labs for nursing students to develop their expertise, and confidence, with various procedures. I recommend that you also practice in front of a mirror.

3. Avoid judging others. It is imperative for new nurses to realize the detrimental effects of judging others—whether colleagues, patients, or family members. Unfortunately, many new nurses first learn this lesson when they find themselves being unfairly judged. When you see someone struggling, reach out to them. Offer to lend, or hold a hand.

Then, there are those all-too-often forgotten lessons from childhood: Wash your hands, maintain a tidy environment, and help others in need. With MRSA and other superbugs on the rampage, it is vital that we adhere to strict cleanliness standards. Maintaining a tidy environment will help keep us all more sane, and our patients more safe.

Of course, as nurses, we daily help those who are obviously in need—our patients. But, what about helping out our colleagues, or stopping to speak with the lost family member, wandering, dazed, in the hallway?

“Look, Nurse, Look!” Nursing school teaches the nurse to observe. Frequently assess the patient. Regularly observe the environment. If you are unfamiliar with a procedure, ask an expert. Find the policy. When in doubt, look it up. As a former staff accountant, I remember being reminded to always “turn the page.” Be sure that you have looked through all vital data, turned over the page, noted lab values and vital signs, and verified consent forms and other vital documentation. Document everything pertinent! Monitor your equipment, and pay attention to alarms. Be sure that all alarms are operable.

And, finally, remember to take care of yourself. Get adequate rest and proper nutrition. Don’t bottle up your stress. Share your concerns with someone you trust. Take time to play. Keep a journal. And keep a positive attitude. Stop to smell the roses, bake a warm batch of cookies, and treat others as you would like to be treated. I often hear nurses and assistants comment that, when caring for their patient, they think, “What if this was my mother, my grandfather, my child, or even me, in this bed?” And, they treat them accordingly.

How did nursing school prepare you for your nursing practice? What life lessons do we learn from nursing? Please share your thoughts.