Advice about Clinical

[theviolinist]

Hi Everyone,

I am at the end of my first semester of nursing school and I just finished up clinicals. During my evaluation my nursing instructor talked to me about my communication skills because she said she's very concerned. I'm a quiet type of person but I feel I have improved throughout the semester in talking with my patients and just being able to walk in their room and introduce myself. I feel I have to work on confidence and communication, but I felt terrible after talking with her. She hasn't decided what to do yet...she might not pass me and I am really worried! I want to move on to the next semester in the fall. I loved clinicals and I really truly want to be a nurse! Has anyone else experienced this before? What can I do?

[loriangel14, RN]

That is an absolutely awesome piece.My oldest daughter is in nursing school and has had comments from her instructors about her being so quiet.I sent her this link.

Thank you.

[NightNerd, MSN, RN]

Wow, I'm sorry to hear this, OP. I feel for you; I'm a quiet person too, and while I'm curious and motivated to do the right thing by patients, sometimes it's hard to speak up, or even know what to ask. I guess we will both be working on that this semester. =/

I'm sorry you've got to retake the clinical portion, but extra practice always ends up being a good thing, in my book. I hope something positive comes of it and that it goes quickly for you.

[akulahawkRN, ADN, RN, EMT-P]

This will help you. You could even share the link with your instructor-- it might benefit someone coming along next year. :)

Susan Cain: The power of introverts | Video on TED.com

What a wonderful find!

[Friskee, BSN, MSN]

I'm confused. They are making you retake it because you're shy? So why don't you prove to them that you are brave and speak up! Challenge it, go to the dean of the department, and do something about it.