4 answers
Sage
Student
Tomball, Texas
1
Question
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What is the best way to prepare myself to work in the medical field?
I have been in nursing classes throughout high school but get nervous when it comes to field work. I will earn my CCMA certification in a few days. What is the best way to feel confident when actually practicing medicine?
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4 answers
Ian Hodge
CEO, Healthcare Consultant
5
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Ian’s Answer
Most clinics/hospitals have shadowing programs for new hires and for new clinicians, in particular. Allow yourself time to learn. You are not likely to cause harm to a patient in an MA role. Don't feel obligated to tell the patient how new you are; move forward with confidence. If you are unsure about a process or procedure, be confident in asking questions. The more you learn, the more you will love being an MA. The fear of making a mistake paralyzes your thinking and is likely to cause additional mistakes. You may also ask if you could shadow prior to starting a job so that you can experience patient acuity profiles, office processes, the EMR, and speak with MA's or RN's working there. You are going to be fine. Patients need you.
Julia Pulgini
Medical Assistant
20
Answers
Wilmington, Delaware
Updated
Julia’s Answer
If I am being honest, it will take time and a lot of practice to fully feel comfortable in the medical field. You may know all the book smarts, but you will learn a lot through hands on experience. I know it’s cliche to say, but practice does make perfect. Try not to stress and everything will fall into place!
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
641
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Sage,
Confidence only comes with experience. Understand that everyone starts somewhere and nobody expects you to know everything. Ask and learn from your seniors. They will understand that you need to learn - just like they had to learn when they started out. Don't let your lack of experience discourage you from pursuing a medical career.
I hope this helps! All the best! You got this!
KP
Confidence only comes with experience. Understand that everyone starts somewhere and nobody expects you to know everything. Ask and learn from your seniors. They will understand that you need to learn - just like they had to learn when they started out. Don't let your lack of experience discourage you from pursuing a medical career.
I hope this helps! All the best! You got this!
KP
April Williams
Recruitment Marketing Specialist
4
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
April’s Answer
First off, congratulations on being so close to earning your CCMA certification—that’s a big accomplishment and shows your dedication to pursuing a medical career. It’s completely normal to feel nervous when transitioning from classroom learning to real-world clinical work. Many people experience that same anxiety, even seasoned professionals when starting something new. The most important thing to remember is that confidence comes with experience and repetition.
One of the best ways to prepare yourself for working in the medical field is to keep practicing your hands-on skills whenever possible, even outside of official clinical time. Whether it's practicing blood pressure readings, reviewing patient scenarios, or role-playing with classmates or family, the more you expose yourself to real-life scenarios—even in small, low-stakes ways—the more comfortable you’ll become. It’s also really helpful to review common procedures and refresh your knowledge regularly so you feel more prepared in the moment.
Beyond the technical side, remind yourself that no one expects perfection right away. Healthcare is a team-based field, and you’ll often be learning alongside others. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or ask for help—this shows that you care and want to do your best, which is something any good team values. Reflecting after each shift or experience can also build confidence. Think about what went well, what you learned, and how you’ll approach it next time. Over time, those reflections turn into growth and self-assurance.
Finally, trust that your nervousness means you care. That’s a good thing. As you continue to show up, apply what you’ve learned, and stay open to feedback, you’ll build the confidence you’re looking for—and your patients will benefit from the compassion and care you bring to the role. Keep going—you’re more ready than you think!
One of the best ways to prepare yourself for working in the medical field is to keep practicing your hands-on skills whenever possible, even outside of official clinical time. Whether it's practicing blood pressure readings, reviewing patient scenarios, or role-playing with classmates or family, the more you expose yourself to real-life scenarios—even in small, low-stakes ways—the more comfortable you’ll become. It’s also really helpful to review common procedures and refresh your knowledge regularly so you feel more prepared in the moment.
Beyond the technical side, remind yourself that no one expects perfection right away. Healthcare is a team-based field, and you’ll often be learning alongside others. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or ask for help—this shows that you care and want to do your best, which is something any good team values. Reflecting after each shift or experience can also build confidence. Think about what went well, what you learned, and how you’ll approach it next time. Over time, those reflections turn into growth and self-assurance.
Finally, trust that your nervousness means you care. That’s a good thing. As you continue to show up, apply what you’ve learned, and stay open to feedback, you’ll build the confidence you’re looking for—and your patients will benefit from the compassion and care you bring to the role. Keep going—you’re more ready than you think!