First clinical in institution coming up!

[DorkyStudentNurse]

I'm so nervous/excited/scared! On Wednesday, I have my very first shift in the hospital. I have no previous experience with any hands-on patient care and I'm so just so nervous. I'll be doing 6 shifts on a Rehabilitation/Restorative Care unit. I went in last week for my orientation and tour and it seems alright. There are 24 patients and I'll only be assigned to one. My job is basically to get my client up (washed, dressed, and ready for the day) and to breakfast in the dining room. After that, I basically just have to make sure they're toileted and ready for their appointments (most of the clients have physio/occupational therapy). Then to lunch and then to get ready for visitors or whatever they wanna do.

Doesn't sound too bad at all but I'm still so nervous. Technically, I can do glucose testing, vitals, bed baths, occupied/unoccupied bedmaking, feeding, and a few other things but I've only practiced each of those once on a partner in skills labs. I have no idea how to do some of the things that I imagine I'll be expected to do (such as changing incontinence briefs) so I'm freaking out a bit.

Anyone else feel like this before their first institutional practice? To top things off, my first shift is 8 hours and then I have a huge psychology exam later that night.

[Lori RN_09_2b]

Hi!

I'm not that far in my program yet, so no advice to offer. I'm sure I'll be really nervous before my first time, too. IMO, though, I think it's better to be a bit nervous than to be thinking, "Oh, this is no big deal." It will keep you on your toes, plus you'll be pleasantly surprised when you survive it. :chuckle

Good luck to you! I'm sure you'll be great! I can't wait to hear how it went!

Lori

[Michelle123]

That sounds so exciting! I don't have any clinical in "real life" situations until second semester. Let us know how you go!!

[student_girl]

Basicly, adult diapers are the same as kids'. Just don't try to lift your pt's legs!

Don't worry, you'll be fine. Mistakes happen, but we have to learn from them. If you're not sure about something, search your books or ask your teacher. Don't forget that everything that comes your way is an opportunity to learn something new. Don't be afraid to ask the nurse you're assigned to if you can watch her do a procedure that you've never seen. If you have free time (it happens), offer your help to people, it will be appreciated.

Good luck!

Let us know how it went.

[kjwalley]

don't stress yourself over it. you will do just fine...everyone has to begin somewhere and once you get here and learn the routine things will go fast. just remember,if in doubt ask the nurse you are assigned to or go to your instructor...the only dumb queation is the one not asked..or so thats what my instructors keep telling me(3rd semester of 4 semester adn program) so good luck and let us know how it goes.....