What Nursing Students Can Do to Secure Good Clinical Placements

Securing a strong clinical placement is one of the most crucial aspects of a nursing student’s education. The hands-on experience gained in a real healthcare setting shapes both skills and confidence, providing the foundation for a successful nursing career. 

According to Carson-Newman University, clinical placements continue alongside regular coursework, allowing students to gain real-life practice with expert supervision. As a result, nursing students get to build relationships with potential employers while receiving guidance from accomplished mentors.

However, finding and securing the right placement can be a challenging process. After all, the competition is high and opportunities vary based on location, program structure, and individual effort. 

To ensure the best learning experience, nursing students must be proactive in their approach, making strategic choices that align with their career goals.

Opt for a Program That Guarantees Clinical Placement

Some nursing schools have established relationships with hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities. This ensures that their students receive hands-on training without the stress of searching for placements on their own. 

This type of structured support streamlines the process and provides access to reputable healthcare institutions where students can learn from experienced professionals. For students pursuing specialized nursing paths, such as becoming a family nurse practitioner, choosing an educational program that integrates clinical training is particularly important. 

Now, the nurse shortage crisis in the US is at its worst in four decades. This crisis, in its current state, is expected to worsen. The country will continue to deal with this shortage of nurses as Baby Boomers age. And, while the demand for healthcare continues to grow, nursing schools are struggling to expand capacity to meet this rising need. 

Renowned programs that offer guaranteed clinical placements might be difficult to enroll in under such circumstances. However, good online programs – including specialized nursing programs like family nurse practitioner (FNP) programs – can also offer this valuable benefit.

Top FNP programs online offer clinical placement assistance, ensuring students get the supervised experience needed to become nurse practitioners. These programs are designed to provide a balance between theoretical learning and practical application, preparing students for the complexities of nursing practice. 

As a result, students in well-structured programs receive the opportunity to develop real-world skills in patient care, enhancing their nursing career. 

Whether earning a nursing degree through a traditional route or an online program, aspiring registered nurses should prioritize schools that provide comprehensive clinical training.

Build Relationships with Faculty and Clinical Coordinators

Establishing strong relationships with nursing faculty and clinical coordinators can make a significant difference in securing a desirable placement. Professors and advisors often have valuable connections within the healthcare community and can provide guidance on placement opportunities that align with a student's interests.

Seeking mentorship and demonstrating a strong work ethic can make faculty members more likely to advocate for students when clinical spots become available.

Clinical coordinators, who oversee placement logistics, can also be key allies in the process. They are often aware of upcoming opportunities and can help students navigate placement requirements. 

Communicating preferences early, asking questions, and expressing enthusiasm for specific specialties can help ensure that students are matched with the most suitable clinical sites.

Gain Healthcare Experience Before Placement

Having prior experience in a healthcare setting can increase the chances of securing a good clinical placement. Many nursing students work as certified nursing assistants (CNAs), medical assistants, or volunteers in hospitals or clinics before starting their clinical rotations. 

This hands-on experience demonstrates a commitment to the profession and provides a basic understanding of patient care, making students more appealing candidates for placements.

Additionally, experience in a healthcare setting helps students develop essential soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability. These skills are highly valued by preceptors – nurses and healthcare professionals who oversee students during clinical training. 

When students already possess a foundational understanding of patient interactions and workflow, they can focus on more advanced learning during their placement.

Being Flexible with Clinical Placement Locations

While many students prefer placements close to home, being open to a wider range of locations can lead to better opportunities. 

Urban hospitals, rural clinics, and specialized healthcare centers each offer unique learning experiences that contribute to a well-rounded nursing education. Some placements may provide exposure to high-acuity patients, while others focus on community-based care, each of which is valuable in developing diverse nursing skills.

Nursing students who are willing to travel or relocate temporarily for their clinical experiences may have access to high-quality sites. Moreover, these placements are also less competitive than those in densely populated areas. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What do student nurses do on placement?

Student nurses on placement gain hands-on experience by assisting with patient care, administering medication under supervision, and observing medical procedures. They also learn how to take vital signs, communicate with patients and families, and document medical records. Placements help bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world nursing practice.

How to succeed in a nursing placement?

To succeed in a nursing placement, students should stay proactive, ask questions, and seek feedback from mentors. Developing strong communication skills and maintaining a professional attitude helps build confidence and rapport with healthcare teams. Staying organized, keeping up with coursework, and practicing self-care are also essential for a productive experience.

What is the most satisfying aspect of nursing?

The most satisfying aspect of nursing is making a meaningful difference in patients' lives. Providing care, comfort, and support during vulnerable moments creates a deep sense of fulfillment. Watching patients recover, forming connections, and being part of life-changing medical interventions make nursing a rewarding profession.

Between 2022-2032, the US expects to fill up 177,400 nursing positions across the country. However, the projected number of job openings for nurses on average PER YEAR till 2032 is 193,100. That means the country might struggle to fill one year of projected openings. 

On top of that, nurses from abroad are struggling to enter the US as well due to visa-related issues. All this means that nurses coming out of the country’s colleges need to be at their very best once they enter the workforce. For that, they must land good clinical placements. 

Securing a good clinical placement requires careful planning, proactive decision-making, and a willingness to put in extra effort. These hands-on learning opportunities are essential for developing the skills and confidence needed for a rewarding nursing career. By taking a strategic approach to securing clinical placements, nursing students can set themselves up for success and make the most of their education.