Not Smart Enough For Nursing School

Not Smart Enough For Nursing School?

not smart enough for nursing school

Do you think you are not smart enough for nursing school? Many nursing students question themselves at one time or another if they really have the “brains” to succeed in nursing school & a nursing career. When you find yourself thinking these thoughts, consider the following tips.

you do not need a high-level iq

You do not need a high intelligence to succeed in nursing. The majority of nurses average around 120 IQ score which falls below the “gifted” IQ levels. Someone with average intelligence is perfectly capable of graduating nursing school. 

Also keep in mind that IQ and grades do not necessarily correspond. Although intelligence aids in better understanding of coursework, the link between IQ and grades does not directly correlate. Other factors may play a role in causing someone to perform poorly.

perseverance, motivation, & application surpass intelligence

Intelligence by itself is insufficient to solve issues. The knowledge you obtain via formal or informal learning must be used consistently. Someone may be clever, yet he or she will not be tenacious in using what they have learned. Both must be used or applied on a regular basis.

Setting and achieving goals requires a high level of motivation. Motivation surpasses intellect in that it improves your performance, gives you purpose, helps you get through challenges, inspires you to progress, and allows you to accomplish your dreams. 

Perseverance can also sometimes be more significant than intelligence. All the talent in the world will not make a difference if the talented person becomes lazy. If a less-skilled individual perseveres, then they will eventually overcome a gifted person.

being a good nurse requires more than just intelligence

The traits of a good nurse require more than just intelligence. Empathy, for example, allows you to concentrate on the patient’s point of view. This leads to a better understanding of how patients are coping & what they are going through. Thus, communication improves which results in a more trusting relationship with the patient.

If you still think you are not smart enough for nursing school, then try sharing your concerns with other classmates/nursing students. They most likely have the same thoughts occasionally as well. Work through the difficult times together and keep getting back on the horse.

References:

What is the IQ of a registered nurse? (n.d.). Retrieved April 21, 2022, from https://actingcolleges.org/library/acting-questions/read/216330-what-is-the-iq-of-a-registered-nurse