5 Ultimate Tips To Get Noticed on Clinical Placement
Whether you’re straight out of high school or are a mature-age student, going on clinical placement as a student nurse is daunting. You may have heard horror stories from other students, have been told that nurses eat their young, or have general fear of the unknown or failure.
It also doesn’t matter whether it’s your first or your final clinical placement, when you’re outside your comfort zone feeling anxious and overwhelmed is entirely normal. There will be challenges (and maybe some setbacks) along the way. At the end of the day, what doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger a better nurse.
In this first blog post, we’ll share The Surgi Nurse’s ultimate tips to get you noticed above your peers on your clinical placement.
1. Let Me Introduce Myself
First impressions matter! Take the initiative to introduce yourself to the healthcare team, patients, and other students. A warm and confident introduction sets the tone for positive interactions. Make sure to:
Smile and make eye contact.
Clearly state your name and role.
Express your enthusiasm and willingness to learn.
Show respect and courtesy to everyone you meet.
By making a strong first impression, you demonstrate your professionalism and eagerness to be an active member of the team.
2. Don’t Wait to Be Told
Proactivity is a highly valued trait in healthcare settings. Instead of waiting for instructions, take the initiative to identify tasks that need to be done and offer your assistance. Look for opportunities to:
Assist with patient care activities.
Help with administrative tasks or documentation.
Support your preceptors during busy times.
Anticipate the needs of patients and the team.
Being proactive shows your commitment to contributing to the team and your ability to take on responsibility.
3. Fake It Til You Make It
Confidence is key, even if you don't have all the answers. "Fake it til you make it" doesn't mean pretending to know everything—it means approaching challenges with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn. Here’s how to do it:
Stay calm and composed, even in unfamiliar situations.
Ask questions and seek guidance from experienced staff.
Be open to feedback and use it to improve your skills.
Trust in your training and knowledge.
Confidence and a growth mindset will help you navigate challenges and build your competence over time.
4. Take Every Opportunity to Learn
Clinical placement is a learning experience, so make the most of it by seeking out and embracing every learning opportunity. Here are some ways to do that:
Observe experienced nurses and other healthcare professionals.
Participate in various clinical procedures and patient interactions.
Ask questions and seek explanations for things you don't understand.
Reflect on your experiences and identify areas for improvement.
Showing a genuine interest in learning and expanding your skills will impress your preceptors and facilitators.
5. Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Healthcare is a collaborative field, and effective teamwork is crucial for providing quality patient care. Demonstrate your ability to work well with others by:
Communicating clearly and respectfully with team members.
Offering help and support to your colleagues.
Being flexible and adaptable in different situations.
Celebrating team successes and recognising the contributions of others.
By being a team player, you contribute to a positive work environment and enhance the overall effectiveness of the healthcare team.
Getting yourself noticed on clinical placement is about more than just showcasing your skills—it's about demonstrating your professionalism, proactivity, confidence, willingness to learn, and ability to work effectively as part of a team. By following these five tips, you can make a lasting impression and set yourself up for success in your nursing career.