Placements: What to Know + Tips to Feel Prepared

Placements: What to Know + Tips to Feel Prepared

Starting your nursing placement is exciting, nerve-wracking, and a huge milestone. Whether it’s your first placement or your final stretch before graduation, preparation is what turns anxiety into confidence.

Here’s what every nursing student should know — plus practical tips to help you feel organised, supported, and ready from day one.

1. Preparation = Confidence

Placements move fast. The more organised you are before your first shift, the calmer you’ll feel walking onto the ward.

Helpful prep checklist:

• Uniform washed and ready
• Comfortable footwear broken in
• Equipment packed the night before
• Placement paperwork organised
• Meals + snacks prepped
• Alarm set early (with backup!)

When your essentials are sorted, your brain is free to focus on learning — not scrambling.

2. Comfort Matters More Than You Think

You’ll be on your feet for hours. Ill-fitting scrubs or unsupportive shoes can turn a great learning experience into a painful one.

Look for:

• Breathable fabrics
• Stretch for movement
• Lightweight scrubs
• Cushioned, supportive footwear
• Compression socks if needed

Comfort isn’t a luxury — it’s performance gear.

When you feel physically comfortable, you’re more alert, confident, and focused on patient care.

3. Ask Questions — That’s the Point of Placement

You’re not expected to know everything.

Placements are about learning, observing, and building confidence in real clinical settings. Ask questions, write notes, reflect after shifts, and take initiative when appropriate.

Supervisors want to see curiosity and engagement, not perfection.

4. Small Habits Build Professional Confidence

Simple behaviours make a big difference:

• Introduce yourself clearly
• Carry a small notebook
• Double-check instructions
• Stay calm under pressure
• Be early, not on time
• Thank your mentors

Professional habits become second nature the more you practice them.

5. Your First Placement Won’t Be Perfect — and That’s OK

Everyone feels overwhelmed at first.

You’ll forget things. You’ll feel unsure. You’ll replay conversations in your head. This is normal.

Growth happens in discomfort.

Every shift adds experience. Every patient interaction builds skill. Every challenge shapes you into the nurse you’re becoming.

6. Pack Smart: Your Placement Essentials

Having a ready-to-go kit reduces stress and saves time.

Student placement essentials:

• Scrub set
• Supportive footwear
• Watch/fob watch
• Pen + notebook
• Stethoscope
• Badge holder/lanyard
• Water bottle
• Snacks

When everything is in one place, you’re placement-ready every shift.

Final Thoughts

Placements aren’t about being perfect. They’re about showing up prepared, willing to learn, and taking care of yourself along the way.

Confidence grows from preparation.
Comfort supports performance.
Organisation reduces stress.

And remember — you’re not alone. Every nurse you admire once stood exactly where you are now.

You’ve got this!