Nursing student in need of help!!

I am a 2nd degree nursing student diagnosed with bipolar II and ADD. It has never been much of a problem for me in life with the proper meds, although I probably could do better in school. I graduated from nursing school but I still need to finish some requirements before they sign off on the paperwork. My question is does anybody have any information about performance anxiety especially when being watched doing clinical assessments? I hate to go into a long story but I am having major anxiety and I am wondering if anyone has had a similar experience. I would like my professor to understand that the anxiety is part of my disorder and that usually I can get a hold of it, but something about being videotaped triggers me. I would like to seek accomodations (I have documentations on file) but I am not sure how to go about it.

I have until Friday May 18 to get this done. If I don't pass the assessment I am done. Even though I have passed the BSN program, I will fail the class and not be allowed to take my boards.

Just a suggestion.......
Most people get anxious when confronted with a situation like yours. It doesn't seem to matter whether it's a presentation in front of a group of people, a major written assignment or, as in your case, a videotaped assessment, anxiety will be present and I think the instructors expect a certain amount of anxiety. Most instructors, I believe, would be concerned if the candidate wasn't a bit nervous.
If you have knowledge of the criteria that is to be assessed, such as a checklist, perhaps you could get some of your classmates, that are probably nervous also, and practice. Video cameras can be purchased or perhaps rented for short periods of time. Find a classmate that would like to sharpen their skills, get a video camera and, if necessary for simulation, ask your instructors if you can use the schools lab (mini-hospital) to video your practice sessions. Show the instructors that you are willing to take the initiative and effort to practice video your assignment. Your friends can critique each other's video session. It's a win/win deal!
You've shown that you are capable of a sustained drive, perseverance and coping skills as you are a second degree individual. You've also shown that you are capable of assimilating information, prioritizing and and integrating.
Good luck and I hope I have helped in some small way.
BLOOM WHERE YOU ARE PLANTED!

I am so sorry to hear of your problem. I have to tell you, while I have experience with Bipolar and anxiety, I don't know much about accommodations. Are you on any kind of medications for anxiety that you could take prior to the assessment? If they make you sleepy, maybe a half dose? Is this an instructor you have a good relationship with? If so, and if the relationship is a trusting, nonjudgmental relationship, I would be straight with the instructor, and ask his/her advice on how to proceed. We have all been in this position, and I know it is doubly hard when you have an anxiety problem, but with several days to go, can you practice at home and videotape yourself? Maybe when you see yourself as a competent nurse on videotape it will help decrease your anxiety when you are with the instructor?

As far as accommodations, as I said I don't know much about it...but if this is the only way you feel you can pass, you may need to ask for that. I do wonder though, with several days and relaxation exercises and practice, if you couldn't help yourself calm down enough to get through this. Maybe a friend could stand in as an instructor to help you practice.

I'm just throwing out ideas here. Feel free to email me if you like. I wish you the best of luck. It doesn't sound like you need luck, though; just a little confidence!

Cary

I would recommend that who ever is in charge of the videotaping that you inform them that you are in need of being accommodated. Write the accommodations that you are wanting and give them a signed copy. (Keep one yourself) Then, consider working with someone who is a creative imagery person that could help with the performance anxiety. It really works and I have had much success with it. I hope this helps

Hi there,
I am also a nursing student, I have been diagnosed with bipolar type 1. I have anxiety as well, somethings that help me are focussing techniques. example, think of 5 things I hear see and feel, then 4 things then 3 etc. it helps to focus me and calm my anxiety.
I have learned as working as a medical assistant for 10 years to deal with the anxiety well, and also to deal with the bipolar, apart from medications (I feel they are only 5% of my recovery) I live as low stress a lifestyle as I can, get to bed on time and eat at least 3 times a day.
These actions also help me control the anxiety, kind of like a constant amount of balance in an unbalanced world.
I hope this makes sense and helps. good luck with your nursing, and I look forward to joining the ranks in 2010!
peace chris

HI-

I have had issues with disabilities both physical and emotional due to an accident I was in a few years ago. I had difficulties in the work place as a result and applied for accomodations.

Do you have an advisor/counselor you can ask to help you with this process?

You should be allowed some sort of accomodation since you do have a legitimate disability.

How about a doctor's note?

Have you sat down with your instructor to discuss this?

Good-luck! You can do it!

I just read your posting as I am new to this site. I have no personal/professional advice for you as I know little about your anxiety issues with being watched.
I would like to know after all this time, how you made out if you don't mind??
One nurse to another.
Trish

Patricia Show

Its been awhile, but I just wanted everyone/anyone who read my message to know how it went. I did pass-thank goodness and it went pretty well. I met with one of my instructors to go over how to perform it. That helped clarify a lot of my questions. I think there was a lot of miscommunication on what we were expected to do.

Thanks for all your suggestions and kind thoughts!