Valentine’s Day is a time of love and sharing. I thought it would be an excellent time to discuss
our up and coming new angels! I am referring to the student nurses who go to many varied clinical sites. Unfortunately nurses are often thought of as “eating their young”. I believe all nurses can think of an instance during training that was unpleasant and hurtful. I have been a clinical instructor for a number of years and would like to make some suggestions to make our students and staff comfortable and efficient! I believe that student outcomes will improve!
Meet student expectations by giving a tour or have a
scavenger hunt that the students can do prior to the first day. It’s not fair for staff to be telling students where the bathroom is!
Post objectives clearly stated for staff nurses to review. Include what students can not do, such as antineoplastic drug administration.
Orient students to the policies and procedures, floor routines and equipment. Nurses and staff don't have the time to be doing our job.
Discuss with the floor charge nurse, which clients would be good candidates for cares. They know the client and it improves instructor knowledge, increases rapport and collaboration.
Post schedule of student cares and client room number clearly.
Be on time for reporting of client, if a student will miss a clinical experience they should call before the start of a shift.
To enhance student learning and actually help with the floor's workload offer to have your students do trach care, caths etc. on their clients. It’s a wonderful student experience and we all know how rare these opportunities are.
Display good communication skills with staff and students. If there are issues deal with them early on.
I suggest that you be present during the intervention.
Check with students and staff routinely to see how everything is going. Ask for input from the staff.
They are the stars of the floor and this will make them feel part of the process.
Check to be sure all client cares and charting is complete before students report off to their assigned nurse.
Our attention to these matters is invaluable to ascertain a wonderful clinical experience for all!
Have a Happy Valentine’s Day!
From: Pam Stellmach RN BS
Associate Director of Nursing
St. Cloud Rasmussen College