student frustration

[hmccartn]

I am a 3rd yr BN student enrolled in a medicine ward clinical. I am finding the discrepancy between what we are taught in school and what things are like on the ward frustrating. on the one hand, we are taught ideal type situations that dont really happen on the ward, or we are taught current best practice and trying to shift opinion or practice according to these standards is very difficult.. the pressure to "just do" on the ward is significant. it is hard to advocate for yourself as a student. has anyone had similar situations or can they offer any advice?

[susanmary]

Follow your instincts, apply your theory to your clinical, and run with it. Strive to do your best ... the reality of nursing is quite different than what is often taught in nursing school. You will learn what shortcuts you can take -- good nursing practice is still good nursing practice -- you will need experience to be able to sort what's right for you.

Always advocate for yourself, safe nursing practice, and your patient's best interests. Just step back, observe/learn from the nurses & do your best.

[pokey sn]

This past clinical I feel exactly how you feel. The staff nurses learn so much through practiced based experience and expect you as a student to just know it as well! A lot of times I find dealing with issues with the elderly is where I have run into trouble. The theory learned in class just doesn't line up with the knowledge you gain by working with them everyday.

All i can say is get through this. practice safely in your student role and once you have your out there in the real world i don't think things will be as frustrating (I hope:)).

Pokey