everlynx

Hi Chrissy, I am currently in my second semester, Med/Surg. Before starting, I was anxious about clinicals due to the many horror stories floating around and I didn't know what to expect. All I can say, based on MY short experience and observations, please keep that in mind, is that your clinical experience will mainly depend on the professor you get assigned to and your mental approach. Other important factors are the hospital you are assigned to and the nurses that work there. I've been lucky to be at the same hospital for both semesters and they have the nicest, most helpful nurses who are always willing to help out the students by talking to us, showing us things, etc. During your clinical day, you will work closely with your patient. Depending on your professor, you will also work closely with him/her. Some handcuff themselves to you and follow your every step and breath down your neck and others pretty much leave you on your own if you show them that you know your stuff. You also work with your fellow students, because you are also part of a team and you will help each other out alot. I've been extremely lucky to have professors that taught for the joy of teaching with nothing to prove to anyone. They were like my Mom (who was a nurse) and took me by the hand and said, here, this is exactly what you need to do and exactly what you need to know. Some of my fellow students are having a horrible time right now and also in the last semester because they were assigned some seriously unbalanced professors with a chip on their shoulders and something to prove. Those are the kind of "professors" who have a piece of paper that says they can teach, but let's face it, just because that paper says they can teach doesn't mean they know how to share their wisdom in an effective and positive manner. There is one professor who constantly yells at all her students no matter what the scenario. (eg: in front of patients) She seems frazzled all the time and doesn't practice what she preaches. As for nurses working with students, that depends on the nurses. The ones I have worked with have been wonderful. They take time to talk to us and show us things and they always encourage us and have a smile even when they are in a rush. One nurse always tells me that she remembers how it was for her, that she had horrible nurses and professors and she doesn't want to be that way with us and wants to break that cycle. Another told us last week that we are a gift for the future, to not give up no matter what and to keep up the good work. That was amazing because it was completely out of the blue and was totally appreciated. Others can't stand students and will barely interact, let alone crack a smile at you. You will only do what you have learned and never anything beyond that. So every week you will build upon your skills. All in all, clinical days are an exhausting experience because you never stop for one minute, not mentally and not physically, until you go home. So far I have seen fellow students break down in tears; I have seen a lot poop and vomit and blood and smelled a vast array of aromas (you know the kind ) But believe me, you will love every exhausting minute of it, even if it makes you want to pull your hair out or kick someone's teeth in, because it is the most amazing experience and you are a Nursing Student! You will never forget it and you will learn! Hope this helps you out some! :wink2: