Clinical Area

Describe why the clinical area was selected and what you initially expected to learn.

We have made it to the fourth semester of Nursing School - the final semester of the Associate's Degree requirements. Typically in your final semester before taking the licensing exam, the NCLEX, we finish complete a preceptorship with a nurse for 90+ hours in one location. On November 18 last year, all the students in my semester gathered for a "lottery" to draw where we would go. I initially had ideas of the ER or ICU in mind. But when I arrived and drew one of the last numbers that would be allowed to choose, I knew that I was going to have to take what was left.

Naturally the ER and ICU slots went first. Finally they got to my number near the end, and I scanned the overhead projector for any remaining spots. I just wanted something during the day. I saw the third floor at UVRMC open, so I took it. I really couldn't remember what floor that was or if I had even been there before. At that point, I was just hoping for the best.

Not being exactly sure of what kind of floor I was going to, I didn't have too many expectations. I knew that I wanted a nurse that would challenge me a bit, but who would also take the time to make sure I was really getting it. My main goal or expectation was that I would finish my preceptorship feeling more comfortable with the prospect of actually being an RN this year. I expected to learn to become a better problem solver and to solidify my nursing skills.