Is there a lotion you guys know of to thicken my skin?

jetsetter · Feb 25, 2004

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Hello everyone,
I have been orienting with my preceptor for 2 weeks now and I find that with all things considered, I am learning well. The only drawback I have is that she tends to DO all my skills FOR me. I know it's not because she thinks I'm incompetent, she's just one of those nurses who hates NOT to do the work if you know what I mean. She's an excellent nurse and always knows what to do but I feel like I'm seriously missing out on some much needed skills and things to learn.
I wanted to ask your opinions, especially because most of you have been around all kinds of personalities and know how better to deal with them than me.
I have written a list of things that in my previous shifts I was unable to complete because she finished them or started them without me. I have made it very diplomatic and as non-threatening as possible. I feel in this short time of orientation allowed me, I have to absorb every second of learning possible before I get on the floor myself.
Any other suggestions on how not to appear hypersensitive and more like a sponge wanting to learn?
God Bless,
JacelRN

The next time the two of you are about to start a procedure, politely ask, "my I try?". She may genuinely not realizing she is "hogging" the procedures.

I would be very hesitant to "upset the boat" w/ your preceptor. Long tern nurses have long term memories.

Katnip, RN · Feb 25, 2004

I've had a couple of preceptors like that. They are wonderful people and awesome nurses. It's just such a habit for them to do it themselves that they forget.

I've just asked, "mind if I try that myself next time?" and they apologize and let me at it. A few still do it now that I'm off orientation, and I just laugh a little and ask again if she would just mind going through the procedure with me instead of for me. Always works so far, and one told me she appreciates it. She just honestly forgets that I need to learn.

RedSox33RN · Feb 25, 2004

I was going to say the same thing as cyberkat. Just ask politely if you can try now (or next time). You are, after all, there to practice, not just the book stuff! Good luck! :)

colleen10 · Feb 25, 2004

I like these suggestions and would add that since you have a list of things you still feel you need to accomplish and try on your own, why don't you spend a few minutes with her going over what you feel your stong points and weak points are and let her know the skills and areas that you feel you still need to experience.

purplemania, BSN, RN · Feb 25, 2004

we ask our managers to meet with the preceptor and orientee frequently and complete a short eval form, with the intent that goals be set for next week. This would help your situation because you could write that I have not been able to complete all my competencies. Talk to your manager. That is another part of being responsible and accountable. DO NOT talk about it with co-workers. That could backfire.

teshunrn · Feb 25, 2004

The job of preceptor is is one to mentor. I think you should remind her that even though it may be faster for her to do things you will never learn to be such an efficiant nurse if she doesn't let yo try!

JacelRN, BSN, RN · Feb 26, 2004

Thank you everyone :wink2:

I will try a new approach tomorrow. I will sit down with her and ask her what she thinks my strengths and weaknesses are at this point, so that I can work on them and try new skills in my time remaining. I will have 3-4 weeks after tomorrow to learn what I need before going on the floor.

I will also take your advice about being a bit more assertive before she does a procedure to say "May I try this time?" Honestly, I had been doing that, but I sound like a broken record, asking again and again. But I have to realize this time is for ME, not her, she needs no further practice :chuckle

So I'll keep you posted, excellent suggestions from you all, thank you again. I'll let you know if they have any affect.

JacelRN