First clinical

twarlik · Sep 25, 2003

Well, my worry was all for nothing. My morning at LTC went very well. My patient was a 93 year old man who upon meeting me wanted to know "what the hell I wanted." I got a little nervous, but after I got him showered and dressed, he seemed to warm up to me. I also met the most awesome CNA who gave me lots of tips. Overall, it was a great experience and quite a confidence booster.

At any rate, thanks again for all your kind words and advice. :)

kimmicoobug · Sep 25, 2003

I attended my first clinical almost 3 years ago, and it amazes me when I think how much I have grown when I was in your shoes and where I am now and where I will be in another 3 years. My first clinical I purty much did the CNA stuff. I did my halting assessment that took me 45 minutes because I kept having to refer to my notes. I couldn't feel the pulse. Just one patient and it took me forever to get this sweet demented lady ready for breakfast. I got to give her a shower and as I am washing her peri area, she just kept pooping and pooping.

Chaya, ASN, RN · Sep 25, 2003

My very first clinical we were given a "scavenger hunt" list of things/places to locate on the floor. Then we were assigned to go into a room and introduce ourself to a patient. I was quaking in my new Nursemates! I felt like I was playing "dress-up" running around in a white uniform. I am still so grateful for the patients who allowed me to care for them as a student and who shared such intimate parts of their lives with me. "Course now I realize how grateful THEY probably were to be able to have a staff member who could focus on and spend so much one-on- one time with them! Good luck- it will feel natural to you in a very short time.

P.S. I am much more comfortable when I am responsible for a patient alone than I ever was with the instructor looking over my shoulder.