Training Student Nurses

Training Student Nurses Training a student nurse is a big responsibility. You may have to take a step back at times and realize you were once in their position. It takes patience, time, the ability to teach, and most of all: Communication.

Tips for training student nurses You are likely to be your student’s first impression of nursing. Your manner of professionalism, the way you deal with patients, doctors, family, and coworkers may have a lasting impact on the nurture training. 

When working with a student nurse and entering a patient’s room, always introduce the student nurse explained her title and the purpose of her visit, followed by allowing the student nurse to explain what procedure she plans to perform. The first few days you may want to take the lead in helping explain to the patient what’s being done, however after several days, take a step back and let the student nurse explained.

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Always remind student nurses that there is an open line of communication, and questions and comments are always welcome.

The first week or two of training, it’s a good idea to leave 15 or 20 minutes open at the end of each shift that you can sit down with your student and allow for questions, comments, and concerns. After listening to any questions or comments the student may have offered, share your own comments. Be sure to include what they did good what you thought they handled well and then allow a little time for constructive criticism, what might they try next time to be more successful.

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After working with the student nurse for a week or so, meetings can cut back to every few days or once a week, as you get to know them and they get to know you, thing will run smoothly. Always let your student know that you’re available for one-on-one meetings in private if they feel they need it. In many ways you are helping to mold the student nurse so make sure that they understand you’re there for them.

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Communication is key and working with a student nurse, making them successful and making you successful as a teacher. Remember that the lines of communication go both ways, you should expect the student to ask questions, and express concerns, as you are expected

to answer questions and address your students' concerns Related: Considering a Nursing Career Remember that you have been chosen to work with a student nurse because of your abilities, someone has determined that you would make a good instructor and teacher, so make sure to follow through and teach accordingly. In many ways the time you spend with the student nurse, their learning process, and their success reflects back on you. Be cognizant of the fact that they are student and still learning, however, be direct and point out areas that need improvement. For any areas of real concern always bring it to the attention of a supervisor. Keep in mind student nurses are just starting out and may be nervous and worried about succeeding, so do what you can, to put their minds at ease.

Many nurses are resistant to having student nurses work with them. It takes time to explain, to teach and can slow your workday down considerably. In most cases however this is a job responsibility that you will undertake at times. When training student nurses, keep in mind that your terminology may not be familiar to them. They have had an overload of information in school and may need refreshers when it comes to applying hands-on techniques. Always assure your student that any question is welcome, however, in most cases should not be done in the presence of the patient.

Develop a code word up front such as assistance may be needed, using assistance is the code word that they can use in a patient’s room indicate they’re not comfortable doing the procedure and require your assistance.

Keep notes and a list of positive and negative experiences working with the student nurse. Most students will welcome learning what areas they need to improve on as well as which areas they're good in. By having periodic meetings during your trainings, this can avoid any surprises at the end, such as the nurse not being aware that they needed to work on certain procedures.

Think of it is an honor that you’ve been chosen to provide teaching instructions to a student nurse. And remember you were once a student nurse yourself. Think back to how you felt and all you had to learn. It will make your student feel more comfortable.

Related: Highly Skilled Nurse Kathleen Lovell Bratby, RN, Ed.D, will be Featured in the Worldwide Leaders in Healthcare Please follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Pinterest and Twitter