NP Internship (clinicals)

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Adult Internal Medicine.

I will be starting NP clinicals this fall. Any advise on what to expect? Is anyone else beginning their internship?

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Clinicals are pretty dependent on your prior experience and the discussion you have with the preceptor on how you learn best and the training/internship teaching processes that he or she had used with past students. I think in general you'll be shadowing for a week or so and then slowly start to take on direct patient care; I.e.. First gathering patient history and physical with NP present and then ultimately seeing patients alone and just discussing case with your preceptor on your choice of treatment plan.

Good luck!

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Specializes in NICU.

Hey. I am starting clinicals this fall as well. What program are you attending?

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Make sure you have a great preceptor. And if you don't, speak up! This is so important. Clinicals is the time for you to "practice."

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The first day I usually follow my preceptor around. I mostly observe and ask a ton of questions, maybe jumping in during the assessment or discussion of differentials. I wanted to get a good feel for what was expected of the clinician in that particular role. On the second day I jump in and see patients either on my own or with supervision, depending on the place. I think it depends on your preceptor and where your site is. Inpatient was a lot easier for me since I could go back to the patient if I forgot something, which I inevitably did. Don't be afraid to make mistakes and ask questions. You're a student. Be prepared to look things up and use what you learned in class.

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Adult Internal Medicine.

Thanks everyone. Keep the comments coming.

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Adult Internal Medicine.

FNP program.... I finally graduated two weeks ago! Now studying for the AANP certification exam.

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FNP program.... I finally graduated two weeks ago! Now studying for the AANP certification exam.

Amazing. Now I'm soon to start clinicals.

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Adult Internal Medicine.
Amazing. Now I'm soon to start clinicals.

Time sure does fly by! Best wishes!!!

ALLOYRN MS, FNP

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