3 answers
Daianey
Student
Roma, TX
1
Question
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How do you prepare for clinical hours for a medical course?
I plan to get my Paramedic license this year and I’m wondering how I prepare for my clinical hours.
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3 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Daianey
That’s an exciting step you’re taking! Preparing for clinical hours as a paramedic student can feel intense at first, but with the right mindset, it becomes one of the most rewarding parts of your training, with dedication nothin can stand an obstacle and you can always juggle it out the way.
1. Know the expectations is top I had recommend. Before your clinicals start, get clear on the objectives. What skills are you expected to practice? How will you be evaluated? Knowing what’s expected helps you focus your energy where it matters most.
2. Study every basics that you can. Review your protocols, patient assessment steps, and how to use equipment. This gives you confidence when you’re on-site — especially when things move fast.
3. Prepare emotionally is also effective. You’re going to see real people in real emergencies. It can be overwhelming. Breathe, observe, and ask questions. You're there to learn — not to be perfect.
4. Be professional, always but not serious always. Show up early, dress appropriately, and treat everyone, patients, nurses, EMTs, with respect. People notice when a student cares. You can be serious now, but remember the field is not always that, you gotta enjoy the moments and that's what its all about.
5. Jot down what you saw, did, or learned after each shift. Not only will this help with reflections and evaluations, but it becomes a valuable record of your growth.
You’ve got this, future medic💪. Remember your real-world impact is just beginning. And if you ever need anything along the way feel free to reach out buddy.
Talk to paramedics or instructors about their clinical experience and tips.
Visit your clinical sites (if possible) ahead of time to familiarize yourself.
Practice your communication, talking to patients calmly and clearly is key way to progress and learn. This skill is most important.
That’s an exciting step you’re taking! Preparing for clinical hours as a paramedic student can feel intense at first, but with the right mindset, it becomes one of the most rewarding parts of your training, with dedication nothin can stand an obstacle and you can always juggle it out the way.
1. Know the expectations is top I had recommend. Before your clinicals start, get clear on the objectives. What skills are you expected to practice? How will you be evaluated? Knowing what’s expected helps you focus your energy where it matters most.
2. Study every basics that you can. Review your protocols, patient assessment steps, and how to use equipment. This gives you confidence when you’re on-site — especially when things move fast.
3. Prepare emotionally is also effective. You’re going to see real people in real emergencies. It can be overwhelming. Breathe, observe, and ask questions. You're there to learn — not to be perfect.
4. Be professional, always but not serious always. Show up early, dress appropriately, and treat everyone, patients, nurses, EMTs, with respect. People notice when a student cares. You can be serious now, but remember the field is not always that, you gotta enjoy the moments and that's what its all about.
5. Jot down what you saw, did, or learned after each shift. Not only will this help with reflections and evaluations, but it becomes a valuable record of your growth.
You’ve got this, future medic💪. Remember your real-world impact is just beginning. And if you ever need anything along the way feel free to reach out buddy.
Dr recommends the following next steps:
Elyse Crotty
Certified Surgical Technologist
42
Answers
Jacksonville, Florida
Updated
Elyse’s Answer
Study the basics, get in good mental and physical shape, make a plan for eating/sleeping/studying during the clinical schedule, and invest in a good pair of sneakers.
Ashlyn Smith, MMS, PA-C, DFAAPA
Physician Associate
6
Answers
New River, Arizona
Updated
Ashlyn’s Answer
Hello!
Endocrine PA here. I applaud Dr. H's answers above! Therefore I will keep mine short and sweet.
-My #1 advice: TRY as much as possible. It is one thing to watch someone do a procedure or make a diagnosis or a decision and think, "yes I would have done that." It is a completely different thing to make those determinations on your own. It is best to practice making those autonomous decisions during rotations when you have the support than starting those autonomous decisions your first day on the job.
Best of luck!
Endocrine PA here. I applaud Dr. H's answers above! Therefore I will keep mine short and sweet.
-My #1 advice: TRY as much as possible. It is one thing to watch someone do a procedure or make a diagnosis or a decision and think, "yes I would have done that." It is a completely different thing to make those determinations on your own. It is best to practice making those autonomous decisions during rotations when you have the support than starting those autonomous decisions your first day on the job.
Best of luck!