How can I cope with exam stress?

Question

I am a student nurse and have to do a practical exam which I completed fluffed because of nerves. Every time I have to speak out load in front of others I feel breathless and my voice shakes. This then makes me more nervous to the point where I forget every thing!! What can I do to get this under control (I resit the exam in six weeks!!)

Answer 1

Get some practice in, perhaps with a few mates or family first, just to get used to it. Make sure you've revised to a state where you are confident in your knowledge - that'll reduce another stress factor.

Then, on the day, take Rescue Remedy, or if you get REALLY nervous, try Kalms, they're good too.

Don't worry, you'll be fine; Good Luck!

Answer 2

I have one oral exam in front of a committee at the same time you will have it.
Usually in the past, I have been able to cope with my stress just in the moment that it was necessary, let's say having diarrhea, stomach pain, etc before and after the moment I feared so much.
Now that I became older, and it's been some time that I do not give an exam in front of a committee, I am not that sure that everything will go so smooth, therefore I took care of asking to my doctor which would be my best choice for being just less anxious at the oral exam. The answer that I believe is the best at least for me is Propranolol - Inderal- just for max a couple of days. Helps to control the tremble, the fear and other anxiety paralyzing symptoms.
Regarding practical exams, I think you will be fine since you will repeat what you have done before. If you need help, remember that there exist medication to use in very stressful times such as alprazolam, the mentioned propranolol, just get some information, try before which is your personal reaction - for instance I fall asleep even with the smallest doses of alprazolam - and then take your decision.
I wish you truly the best,
Fro

Answer 3

Before u start the exam make urself feel really good - long shower, best body products, best perfume, outfit, etc etc.

On ur way there, say in ur head positive affirmations - I am good at this job, I will be an excellent nurse, What Im going to say is relevant and interesting etc etc

Imagine urself being in the position u want, successful and happy - ur soooooooooooooooooooo much better than the other candidates - they need u

If all else fails, a little nip of vodka! Good luck and go for it!

Answer 4

The best advice I was ever given was to take a deep breath and let it out slowly, then think of what you want to say and then take a short pause and think of the next thing you want to say. If two or more people are asking you questions all at once, turn to just one of them and ask what their question is and answer it, then turn to the next one and so on making the others wait. That way you are more in control and not getting flustered. If you do not know the answer to a question say so and say that you would ask someone who did if you came upon that situation. Try to get a good night sleep the night before your exam and all the best of luck.

Answer 5

I think the only way you can overcome fear of public speaking is practise.

If you don't often get the opportunity to speak in public give presentations etc, to help you with your exam, try deep breaths and remember to take your time. It also helps to be so well prepared you feel confident you know your subject matter inside and out.

Answer 6

Homeopathy :-
Take GELSEMIUM 200C once a day before going for your exam or interview best remedy for exam nerves and stage fright works like a charm and no side effects or complications.
Take Care and God Bless you !

Answer 7

Just take a deep breath???

There is a councillor at your finger tips to help with relaxation techniques, Don`t feel anxious that's what they are there for. Most of my friends had to use them myself included, ! went to pieces at exam times!!!


There is lots of help if you ask the college or the hospital.

Good luck to you.

Answer 8

Just think, the people there aren't going to judge you if you make a mistake, I'm sure they've all been through it too. They're all rooting for you to do the best for yourself.

Good Luck with your exam, but I'm sure you'll do fine.

Answer 9

Study all subjects through out the year & be confident that you know all what sre needed for exam. If you have good knowledge you will have confidence & will not hesitant in answering in front of your examiner, Think he/she is also not perfect .Your confidence will defnitely impress the examiner.This is the fundamental of appearing in exams.

Answer 10

Ask your doctor about an exercise routine. Regular exercise, such as walking three times a week, may reduce neuropathy pain, improve your muscle strength and help control blood sugar levels. Gentle routines such as yoga and tai chi might also help.