With my experience as a clinical nursing instructor, I’ve learned that the first day with a new group of students is important because it gives me a chance to build trust and set expectations. Many students come into clinicals feeling nervous, especially when they realize they will be working with actual patients instead of practicing on mannequins in the lab. I like to introduce myself, explain how clinical rotations will work, review safety expectations, and give students a chance to ask questions. I also remind them that they are there to learn and that I don't expect them to know everything on the first day. Over the past few years, I've noticed that once students become more comfortable with me and their surroundings, they start asking more questions and become more confident in their nursing skills. Being prepared and creating that comfortable learning environment from the beginning makes a big difference in how the rest of the term goes.
