Nursing Times

We have an obligation to conduct ourselves in a professional manner. Throughout our studies, we have the ever-present realisation that we are accountable to the Nursing and Midwifery Counsel (NMC). Obviously, there are numerous ways in which a student nurse can exercise self-control and professionalism, both outside our studies and in practice but today I’m going to talk about social networks.

During my community placement I had seen patients with a wide variety of different conditions and social situations, but one in particular presented quite a dilemma for me.

Students of nursing are in the lucky position to be able to arrange a negotiated placement. This period in the students training (in the third year) allows an almost unlimited possibility for students to experience something truly unique.

It is clear to everybody that being a student is a transient state. For three years we are gaining the knowledge and the skills to be able to become competent and professional nurses. As that time grows closer our minds, of course, start to think about things like employment and the sort of locations which we would like to work in.

Whether it be interacting with patients, taking a handover from your colleagues or attending meetings you will always be put in a situation where you have to interact with a diverse spectrum of people.

Having to demonstrate 100% competence in the preparation and administration of medication gives me shivers

As a student nurse, issues surrounding mental health are never far away.

While at my community placement I visited an older patient to assess what help and support she would need in order for her to remain at her own home.

It’s that time of year again when we buy presents, look forward to the special food and enjoy spending time with our families; but what about the people we leave behind when our year is done?

I want to talk today about a phenomenon I have noticed in practice and it's something I am personally trying to overcome. I am in the first half of my second year and as such there is an expectation that I should know a fair bit about nursing and medical issues.