3 Tips for Connecting with Patients During Clinicals.

Hello, #NPstudents! Lynn McComas, DNP, ANP-C, the owner of? PreceptorLink?, here. I'd like to share three ways you can help patients accept you during your clinical rotations:

1) The first step is to go in prepared so you know a little about him/her. In outpatient settings, look at what is noted as the reason for the visit. Obviously, inpatients review the consult/admit note. Sometimes, it’s on the schedule, or the MA/nurse may have written it. You may want to quickly look something up before entering the room so that you are completely informed and prepared.

2) After you have been cleared to see a patient and instructed how much you can do on this visit by your preceptor, enter the room with a warm, friendly smile. A friendly attitude will warm up the grumpiest patient. Look the patient/family in the eyes and introduce yourself to everyone. You can decide about shaking hands.

3) Find out who is with the patient today, if applicable. Note that. (“Patient is here with husband, George.” “Patient is here with his mother, Anne.”) Ways to introduce yourself include, “Good morning! I’m Lynn McComas, and I am the nurse practitioner student who is working with Dr. Smith today. We will be working together to see you today. Tell me what is going on/what brings you in/how we can help today…”

Find your own voice, but being prepared, warm, and friendly will open doors for you! You've got this!