OK, clinicals in two weeks?!....NO experience!

[Iridescent Orchid]

What can I expect? Of course, like most, our first rotation is going to be in a Nursing home facility...I know for the first few days we will be doing CNA-type work, but what can I truly expect? I am very nervous for the fact that I have no pt care experience. I know we'll be bathing the pts and whatnot. I've worked with our simulation mannequins, but that's as far as I have ever went...am I going to struggle through this or will I be able to really take it all in? Just nervous for most people in my class work at a doctor's office in some portion or another, or have been a CNA in the past and here's little ole me with this being my first time ever! LOL

[Iridescent Orchid, CNA, LPN]

Hi Everyone,

Just finished my 2nd day of clinical, 4 weeks into the LPN program. It wasnt a good experience.

I was at a SNF. I kind of felt "thrown to the wolves". I did work with another student, and a CNA. I felt the bath was rushed, the care was "just get it done", and I was pretty upset about how the residents were treated, bathed, fed and care for ( or lack thereof). I actually did cry later to 2 of my instructors. I learned at school and lab that when bathing a patient, only the being washed area is to be exposed, why then were my residents completely naked, and exposed? Door open! I did ask this, and insisted he be covered. Have people become so complacent that we forget about giving dignity? It was very upsetting to hear 20 yrs olds call residents "hon" etc. Have some respect, really! I have been around, and I am not thin-skinned, but I am shocked and distressed to see this type of care. I know now that I have to continue on this path, as discouraged as I am, because we should all be treated with dignity and respect. I am not on a high horse, I just need to see this changed, and I have to be the one to follow through. I would want a person I loved to be cared for in a compassionate manner. Thanks for letting me vent

We have been warned about that kind of care and to report it to our instructor if we see it being done, especially exposing the pt completely naked! That really is just wrong! I would not be able to stand it. They do that so that they get it done as quick as they can and I think that's just wrong...I haven't even done one clinical rotation and I have read and learned that sometimes the pts bath is sometimes the most soothing and enjoyable part of their day because of how the warm washcloth feels to them, and to expose their entire body and have them get cold while getting their bed bath just because you "need to get done as soon as possible"? I am with you on that one. I could never, ever give that kind of care to my resident! I will not be one of those. If I don't have the time, I'll make the time. My instructor said that one of the most rewarding feelings was when a patient would fall asleep as she was giving them their bed bath. I just couldn't imagine doing that to my patient...not even being a worn-out tired nurse trying to get things done the quickest way...the right way is the best way and it saddens me so many lose it after school ends and they get their degree and start working.

[leenie45]

I can tell by your response, that you really understand this. You are absolutely correct, some pt's, residents really need this warmth, contact, circulation, relaxation etc, and it's a good time for the nurse to assess the person. Listen, I know there are certain short-cuts that are taken, but this just cannot be one of them. I have clinicals this week as well. Funny thing, I am great with the residents, and feel very comfortable, but when it comes to the 2 step bp, I just can't seem to get it. Oh well, tomorrow is another day, and maybe I can make a resident feel better than they otherwise would. Don't lose your wonderful understanding and compassion for people, it will take you far, best of luck to you future Nurse!

[Iridescent Orchid, CNA, LPN]

Oh my! Today was my first day on the floor after orientation! I was paired with a CNA and there was so much that I actually did today! It's so much more exciting to go from what you are learning in theory and to begin applying it in a real clinical setting! I gave a bed bath to two residents today, assisted two others with their breakfast and lunch, helped change a few soiled briefs, dressed some of them, and got to see the wonder works of a Patient Lift (how neat are those things?!) and so many other things, got to escort quite a few residents to activities and the cafeteria. This was just a great experience. I was sweating, but I can finally say without a doubt, although it will get more complex from here on out, I know this is where I am supposed to be at this point in my life!

[Mazee]

No worries!! I have been through 4 clinical rotations and I still get nervous too!! Everyone has pretty much covered what to expect....but if you have good classmates, someone will take you under their wing and help you out. Im sure you'll do great! Good luck!

I agree having classmates that help each other out makes clinicals a better learning experience. Lessens anxiety and can be a bit fun. I remember this because my classmates and I back in school were a close bunch. We actually compared notes post clinicals on the types of patients we got. During clinicals we helped each other out if we see one is struggling. Remember don't ever be afraid to ask for help!