Pointers for relaxing on clinicals

[xrsm002]

I am a paramedic student, and I just recently moved to a new city, I get nervous around the paramedics and preceptors, even when doing "simple" skills such as taking manual bp, and pulses. I do fine in the labs practicing, I guess its because I am in a new city and everything is new. I guess living in a city for 29 years you get used to stuff. Does anyone have any suggestions of how not to get too nervous while on a clinical or in the field?

 

[fast65]

Just take a deep breath and relax. Remember that your preceptors were all in your position at one point in time so don't stress over things too easily. If you make a mistake, learn from it. Just practice the skills that you can in your off time, and read up on any material you're not confident in and I think you should be fine.

 

[Cup of Joe]

Don't be afraid to admit you either don't know something, don't remember something, or aren't comfortable doing something. Any good preceptor will understand.

I did my ride time before we had even started the trauma module, and when we were called to a MVA, I did what I could to be as helpful as I could. My preceptor completely understood.

 

[Nerd13]

A lot of this will get easier with time. I'm a very nervous person by nature so I understand where you're coming from. The hospital I did all of my medic clinicals at was terrifying to me at first. I just did my best to make a good name for myself as a student who was willing help with anything or learn anything and before too long I was pretty comfortable there. They got used to my abilities while I got used to how things ran. Even now when I take a pt in there they're always happy to see me and I feel very comfortable giving reports and dealing with the staff. Just remember to try and learn everything you can and build a reputation as someone who works hard and everything else will fall into place for you!

 

[tommyG]

Take a deep breath, and pretend that you are in the lab practicing. Do what you know how to do, and ask questions when you are unsure about something new. You could also try to laugh at yourself - at your own nervousness. Humor has a way of putting things in perspective.

 

[VCEMT]

If you have a female companion, there are things that she could do to get you relaxed. I dated a gal that is a physical trainer, she gave great 'deep tissue' "massages".

 

[the_negro_puppy]

If you have a female companion, there are things that she could do to get you relaxed. I dated a gal that is a physical trainer, she gave great 'deep tissue' "massages".

 

[Flightorbust]

If you have a female companion, there are things that she could do to get you relaxed. I dated a gal that is a physical trainer, she gave great 'deep tissue' "massages".

I'm not sure I want to know what your into if your on the receiving end of said "massage".
Back on track, Let your preceptor know what you don't feel right doing. They will understand.

 

[Shishkabob]

Chances are, you most likely won't kill someone by screwing up.





Probably.

 

[BandageBrigade]

Chances are, you most likely won't kill someone by screwing up.





Probably.

This.

And don't make stuff up (vitals) and don't try to fake stuff you don't know or understand. Be confident with what you know. Ask questions. The more comfortable you are with your preceptor, the more comfortable you will be on calls.