Ben's Top Tips For Starting Your First Clinical Placement

Being sent out on placement, whether it’s your first or last, can be a daunting prospect to many. I’ve collated some of my own reflections, and advice from others, to hopefully help you settle in that little bit easier.

Firstly, you’re there to learn. Your educator is there to guide you through the learning experience applied to a real-life environment. It goes without saying that, particularly on a first placement, students aren’t expected to know everything that a qualified health professional does. Instead, the ability to work safely, and showing a willingness to learn will go a long way.

It’s also important to remember that you’re not alone when out on placement. It’s not always the case that you’ll be out with another student from your cohort, but even if this isn’t the case, you are still supported. Your academic tutor and the placement team will be on hand if you have any worries while on placement, and your tutor will hold a halfway meeting with your clinical educator. Most of the time, Wednesday mornings are reserved for teaching which also allows you to touch base with your mates and teaching staff mid-week.

Keeping hold of healthy habits will also do you good while on placement. Long working hours and plenty of new information can, at times, feel overwhelming. By keeping a healthy diet, staying active, and getting plenty of sleep, you give yourself the best possible preparation to stay focused and feel good! One great way to maintain this is by meal-prepping over the weekend so you have more time to unwind in the evenings after a nutritious meal.

It's normal to feel nervous, excited, or even unsure when approaching placement, but it’s important to recognise that you are supported in many different ways through this great opportunity to develop your knowledge and skills. By looking after yourself you have the best chance of making the most of your experience!