In this episode of Nursing Navigator by Hurst Review, hosts AG and Annette dive into the structure of nursing school and why it's designed the way it is. They share insights into the accreditation process, student outcomes, and the standards that shape nursing education. From retention rates to the emotional journey of repeating courses, this candid conversation helps students understand the reasoning behind the rules and how accountability builds trust in nursing programs.

In this episode of Nursing Navigator, AG and Annette dive into the traits that define a great nursing school student. They share personal stories and practical advice on how initiative, resilience, and professionalism can shape a student’s journey and open doors in clinical settings.

In this episode of Nursing Navigator, AG and Annette dive into the real reasons behind what makes nursing school tests so challenging. From test validity and reliability to critical thinking and clinical judgment, they break down the process educators go through to design exams that prepare students for real-world nursing.

On this episode of Nursing Navigator, AG and Annette tackle one of the biggest rumors among nursing students today, the myth that instructors are trying to weed out students. Join them as they discuss overcoming academic and personal challenges and address the culture of "nurses eating their young." Discover practical tips for success, the importance of mentorship, and how to stay motivated by focusing on your "why."

Today on Nursing Navigator, we visit the Nursing Newsroom to discuss news and trends that are shaking up the nursing world, from HIPAA violations to questionable scrub designs.

Whether it's a voluntary decision or something entirely out of your control, you may find yourself in the position of needing to delay your NCLEX® test date. In today's episode of Nursing Navigator, we go over many reasons as to why it may happen and what YOU can do to make the most of this momentary setback to make sure you can pass!

Today on Nursing Navigator, we interview Annette, an experienced nurse and nurse educator to ask her what advice she has for new nurses and nursing school graduates.

Not every nursing student walks a straight path, and that’s exactly what makes the journey so powerful. In this episode of Nursing Navigator, Ashley joins Sarah to unpack what it’s like to teach unconventional students in nursing school: second-career switchers, parents, older learners, GED earners, and more!Together, they explore the challenges these students face, the unique strengths they bring to the classroom, and the strategies educators can use to help them thrive. Whether you're a student questioning your place or a teacher wondering how to reach every learner, this episode is a celebration of resilience, growth, and the belief that there’s no wrong time - or way - to become a nurse.

You chart every vital sign, but are you ignoring your own?

In this episode of Nursing Navigator, we’re shining a light on something every nurse feels but rarely talks about: mental health. We explore the emotional toll of nursing, from burnout and exhaustion to the quiet moments of overwhelm we hide behind strong smiles.

- You’ll learn why nurse burnout is at an all-time high (with eye-opening stats)

- How to recognize the early signs that your mental health needs attention

- Practical, real-life strategies to protect your peace during and after your shifts

- Resources every nurse should have on hand for mental and emotional support

Whether you’re fresh out of nursing school or decades into bedside care, this conversation is a reminder that self care is critical care, too.

RESOURCES:

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Free, confidential support 24/7 for people in distress or crisis.

https://988lifeline.org

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

Advocacy, education, and peer support for mental health.

https://www.nami.org

NurseGroups.org

Virtual peer support groups specifically for nurses, run by nurses.

https://www.nursegroups.org

Calm (App)

Meditation, breathing, and sleep tools for stress management.

https://www.calm.com

Headspace (App)

Mindfulness, focus, and relaxation practices designed for busy lives.

https://www.headspace.com

MindDoc (App)

Daily mental health tracking and guided self-help programs.

https://www.minddoc.com

Ten Percent Happier (App)

Meditation and resilience-building designed for skeptics.

https://www.tenpercent.com

Book: Burnout by Emily & Amelia Nagoski

Science-backed advice on managing stress and completing the stress cycle.

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/600671/burnout-by-emily-nagoski-phd-and-amelia-nagoski-dma

Book: The Shift by Theresa Brown, RN

A powerful memoir from the front lines of nursing.

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/308129/the-shift-by-theresa-brown-rn

On today's episode of Nursing Navigator, we're interviewing Valerie and AG - two nurses with a lot of experience - to ask them various questions about what the've learned throughout their careers, such as what advice they wish they would've had before their first day on the job, how to avoid burnout, and more!