Day in the Life : Student Nurse

Have you ever wanted to become a healthcare professional or nurse? Do you want a career that is both personally and professionally rewarding? Student Nurses and others like them drive the future of the industry, without them our healthcare system would not be as strong as it is today. We spoke to a student that is studying to be a disability nurse, to gather information on how she hopes to be part of the future generation of professionals.

 

Can you sum up your main responsibilities as a student nurse?

 

As a student nurse, your responsibilities vary as you progress. In first year, it is mostly shadowing other nurses. Once you have the confidence and knowledge, you are able to shift lead and delegate tasks to staff members ensuring care is delivered effectively and efficiently. In addition, you are given the opportunity to manage your own case load, in which you must make decisions based on your judgement. It is also our responsibility to act professionally at all times and promotes health and wellbeing for the clients.

 

What form of nursing do you hope to pursue?

 

I am currently a learning disability student nurse and would hope to continue in this area.

 

What are the practical aspects of being a student nurse?

I am currently on placement within a community learning disability team managing my own case load. I feel like a valued team member. Through the course, I have an opportunity to work in a variety of areas through different placements. 

 

How many hours constitute your typical working week? 

I work 37.5 hours most weeks depending on the shift pattern.

 

What are the pluses and minuses of being a student nurse?

The pluses:  I have met many different people who have helped keep me focused through my studying. I have had the opportunity to encourage others to choose nursing as a career and share my experiences. Most of the placements have been extremely positive and supportive. I have developed my knowledge and skills in certain aspects of nursing. This has helped guide my decision in my future career.

 

Minuses: Many placements are not located near my home. I have struggled with travel at times. Being a student I don’t have much money to splash around but it will be worth it once I qualify.