Your first clinical rotation: the checklist

Two to four weeks before

• [ ] Health records your school and site require, usually TB screening and vaccination records. Details
• [ ] Background check and any drug screening the site requires
• [ ] CPR / Basic Life Support card, if required
• [ ] Required training, often HIPAA and bloodborne pathogens
• [ ] Site paperwork and system access (badge, electronic health record login)
• [ ] Your schedule: dates, start times, where to report, parking or transit

The night before

• [ ] Uniform clean and meeting the site's dress code (closed-toe shoes, hair tied back, minimal jewelry)
• [ ] Review any patient conditions or skills your instructor shared
• [ ] Pack: ID badge, watch with a second hand, pens, a small notebook, stethoscope or other tools your program uses, water and a snack
• [ ] Plan to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early

On day one

1. Find your instructor or preceptor and ask how they like to work and communicate.
2. Learn the basics: where supplies are kept, how to call for help, the emergency procedures.
3. Listen to report and write down what you need (no patient names in personal notes you take home).
4. Stay within your scope. If you're unsure whether you can do something, ask first.
5. Keep patient information private: no photos, no patient details on social media.

After the shift

Write down what you learned and one thing to improve. Thank your preceptor.