Working with preceptors and clinical etiquette

Start with a short conversation

On day one, ask your preceptor:

• How do you like to communicate during the shift?
• What should I always check with you before doing?
• When's a good time for questions?
• What does a great student look like to you?

Every shift

• Be early and ready. Know your patients' basics before report ends.
• Stay within your scope. Your school and the site decide what students may do. When in doubt, ask.
• Close the loop. Tell your preceptor when you finish a task, and report changes in a patient right away.
• Document carefully and follow the site's rules for student charting.
• Follow safety and infection control procedures, including those for sharps and blood exposure.

Asking for feedback

Ask one specific question at the end of a shift: "What's one thing I should do differently tomorrow?" Then do it.

Respect the whole team

Learn names. Thank the aides, unit clerks, housekeeping staff and therapists who help you. Many students are later hired where they rotated, and everyone on the unit notices how you treat people.

When things get hard

Clinical days can be emotional. Talk with your instructor if something upsets you, and lean on classmates. Take care of yourself outside clinical too.