Step-down internship advice?

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Hey! I was wondering if anyone here has had an internship/work experience in a step-down unit and could give me advice. I will be assigned a preceptor and follow their schedule (12 hour, night shifts) for 8 weeks. I'll mostly be observing, but I believe I will be allowed to perform assessments alongside the preceptor.

I really want to learn as much as I can and make the most out of this experience (and hopefully be offered a continuing externship)! Thanks! :)

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Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.

I have never worked on a step down unit but I have worked (inpatient) med-surg and I have transferred many patient from the ED to stepdown units so I am familiar with the acuity level (which varies from hospital to hospital)..

General advice for an internship: Treat it like a job

Be on time (early)

Be prepared (stethoscope, pen, penlight, scissors, badge, any necessary paperwork etc)

Be ready (to act quickly in an emergency situation)

Introduce yourself.

Have good communication. Inform your preceptor ahead of time if you will be absent. Make eye contact. Speak clearly and carefully and respectfully. Communicate messages as soon as possible.

Know your limits. You are a nursing student, not a nurse. And not a doctor.

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I greatly appreciate your input.

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