Nursing students know the feeling all too well – trying to drink from the educational firehose while mastering complex procedures, memorizing medications, and surviving clinical rotations. In fact, one could wonder if the brain can actually absorb all of this information. Here’s how WeRPN’s resources can make this challenging journey a little smoother.
The brain deserves better than all-nighters
Most students have been there – highlighting textbooks until they glow and pulling caffeine-fueled study marathons. But science suggests there’s a better way.
Chunking it down
Rather than one four-hour study block (which, realistically, often includes significant time lost to distractions), students benefit more from dedicated 30-45 minute focused sessions throughout the day. The brain forms stronger neural connections with repeated exposure rather than one exhausting cram session. Three or four daily “micro-sessions” consistently outperform one marathon study period.
Creating a fortress of solitude
Many students believe they’re excellent multitaskers, but cognitive science disagrees. Each time a notification is checked, the brain needs about 23 minutes to fully refocus. Creating a distraction-free zone – silencing notifications, using website blockers, and letting support systems know they’re temporarily unavailable – pays dividends in learning efficiency. This is a useful technique for RPNs to master.
Relentless self-testing
Rereading notes feels productive but often creates a dangerous “familiarity” that masks actual understanding. Instead, closing that textbook and asking questions like: “What are the five steps in this procedure?” or “What are the contraindications for this medication?” strengthens memory pathways far more effectively than passive review. This retrieval practice is among the most powerful learning techniques available.
Sleep: the brain’s cleanup crew
During sleep, the brain isn’t just resting – it’s consolidating memories and clearing out cellular debris. That all-nighter before an exam? It’s literally blocking the brain’s ability to organize what’s been learned. Prioritizing those 7-8 hours of sleep can significantly impact exam performance.How WeRPN Supports Nursing Students
WeRPN has developed resources specifically designed to support evidence-based learning strategies and help students thrive both in school and as they transition to practice.
Self-care beyond the buzzwords
The WeRPN Self-Care Toolkit offers practical strategies for maintaining physical and mental reserves when they’re constantly being depleted. Whether students are struggling with sleep quality, organizational challenges, or mental clarity, the toolkit provides actionable solutions.
Conquering the CNO Exam
For many nursing students, the registration exam looms like a final boss battle. WeRPN’s RPN Exam Prep Modules break down complex concepts, provide practice questions, and build confidence for this crucial milestone.
Members can log into their WeRPN member account → Learning Management System dashboard → Exam Prep Modules
New Graduate Navigation System
Many recall the overwhelming feeling when first applying to nursing school—and many new graduates experience the same when starting their first position. The WeRPN New Grad Toolkit helps bridge that gap, addressing common challenges and building confidence for those launching their RPN careers.
A Professional community awaits
WeRPN membership provides invaluable connection to a community of RPNs who understand exactly what nursing students are experiencing. The association advocates for the profession while providing tools that support growth from student to practicing nurse.
The journey to becoming an RPN is challenging, but students don’t have to navigate it alone. WeRPN supports them every step of the way – from late-night study sessions to their first day on the unit. Their success is the profession’s success.
Students and new grads can visit their WeRPN member account to explore all the benefits awaiting them – right after they get some sleep (or perhaps after a quick retrieval practice session).
