hi,
i am a first year student nurse. I start my placement tomorrow at king’s college hospital,on a rehabilitation/diabetic wards. I’ave visited the ward before and i know i will be working with the elderly.
Does anyone have any tips/advice for me?
Like some do’s or dont.
Personal experience?
Or any links or resources.
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I’m a British qualified RGN retired now. In training we were told that training as a student nurse is a socialisation process. My personal opinion is that getting on with the staff is VERY, VERY important. You can be a brilliant student but if the staff feel you don’t fit in they will make it difficult for you. On the other hand students who were not altogether on the ball but who got on well with the staff had an easier time and generally did well. I wasn’t one of the favoured ones who concentrated on getting on well with staff. I preferred to concentrate on the patients. I got through my training and qualified and worked as a nurse but I had little support from staff on the ward.
I’m sure you have already read up on diabetes, rehabilitation and the nursing care provided. Familiarise yourself with the ward and routine on the ward. Listen, look and watch carefully.
Good Luck
If your course allows you (in the near future) to visit the floor the day before to pick the patient, always dress professionally. One of our students showed up after a basketball game (a male nursing student) wearing shorts and tank-top. Needless to say he was asked to leave the program a week later.