Third Semester Blues

[CRNABH2b]

Hi all! Was wondering if any of you out there could give me some pointers. I had heard from other people that the 3rd semester of the clinical portion of my program is quite challenging. I find that most days are great while 30% of my days are average. I have also been noticing that they are expecting a lot more from me. With most I do well but some are extremely demanding. I was wondering if any of you had any pointers out there. There is still a lot out there that I have not experienced and need to learn but I feel like they expect us to be self sufficient. Any advice out there would greatly be appreciated.

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

I would ask for feedback from preceptor, staff nurses and clinical instructors. No point in waiting till a bad habit is ingrained. Ask nurses how they prioritize and manage time. Most have little aids or some sort of system to get them through. If you have any down time ask to be included on a procedure for a patient not within your assignment. I remember I assisted with dressing changes, transporting, bed baths (with assessment of skin), blood transfusions, lab draws, all sorts of things and that helped me become familiar.

[ralatek]

I just keep reminding myself I've only been doing this for 18 months now and there is no possible way I can be an expert...despite the expectations. I just try to improve each day no matter how big or small the improvement. If you're learning and improving each day, you're doing what you're supposed to be doing. I've beat myself up too much over the last semester to worry about it anymore. I'm in my senior residency and have 4 months to go. If I can keep improving each day that's fine by me. I don't have to be greatest CRNA that ever lived once a graduate. That will come with some time and experience:rotfl:

[CRNABH2b]

Thank you. That really did help.