7.1 HLTH 3054 Preparation Before the First Day of Clinical Placement
Getting Ready for your Clinical Professional Practice Placement
Successful clinical placements require more than just showing up—being organized and well-prepared sets the foundation for a meaningful and safe learning experience. As a Personal Support Worker (PSW) student, your placement is a vital opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings, build professional relationships, and develop your skills in providing compassionate, client-centred care.
Review Placement Expectations
Before starting your clinical placement, familiarize yourself with the policies, procedures, and expectations of the PSW program by reviewing your HLTH 3054 curriculum and the PSW program manual. The curriculum will include additional information regarding dress code, attendance requirements, communication protocols, and the domains of practice requirements for PSW students.
- Review your HLTH 3054 Course Curriculum & PSW Program Manual (found in your Fanshawe Online HLTH 3054 course)
- Review your Synergy clearance, make sure it is up to date and bring photocopies of ALL of the forms you uploaded to Synergy (there will be required by the placement agency)
- Review this OER to review clinical placement expectations
- Attend the mandatory College Orientation prior to placement
- Attend the mandatory Agency Orientation
Clear the Synergy pre-placement process requirements
See Chapter 4: Preparing for Clinical Professional Practice Placements to review the pre-placement requirements.
This is due the month prior to the start of your Clinical Professional Practice Placement!
Note ALL Deadlines
Use a calendar or digital planner to track important deadlines. Missing deadlines can result in delays or ineligibility for placement. Setting reminders can help you stay accountable and reduce last-minute stress.
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Prepare your Supplies
Ensure you have all necessary supplies ready before your first day. This may include:
- Uniform/Scrubs that are clean and program-approved.
- Your Nametag. Visible at all times, worn on the left side of your uniform, high enough to prevent client injury when providing care.
- Fanshawe College PSW crest sewn to the outermost portion of your uniform’s left sleeve (do not use staples or pins).
- Watch with a second hand clipped to your uniform.
- Black or white running shoes.
- A small notebook and pen for on-site note-taking.
No jewelry is to be worn during your placement shift.
Plan for Transportation and Scheduling
Know the location of your placement and plan your commute in advance. Consider factors such as travel time, weather conditions, and public transit schedules. If you rely on others for transportation, have a backup plan in case of unexpected delays. Also, consider how your placement schedule fits with your other commitments and plan in advance. Child care, work, and personal days are not acceptable excuses for missing placement.
Clinical placements are subject to availability, and as such, it may be necessary to assign students to clinical agencies in an outlying community. Students are expected to make their own travel arrangements to all assigned clinical agencies.
Additional Preparation Strategies
Clinical placement is a key part of your learning experience in the PSW program. It can bring both excitement and challenges, so it’s important to approach it with preparation and a clear mindset. Set achievable goals, take care of your physical and mental well-being, and reach out to your peers, instructors, or clinical supervisor when you need support.
Being well-prepared helps reduce stress and allows you to focus on learning. Knowing what to expect, staying organized, and completing your responsibilities on time will help you feel more capable and ready to engage in meaningful learning. With a proactive and open approach, you’ll be well-positioned to grow your skills and contribute effectively to the healthcare team.
Reflection Prompt: Preparing for Placement
Take a few minutes to reflect on the following questions before starting your HLTH 2054 Clinical Professional Practice Placement:
- What are two specific goals I want to achieve during this placement?
- What strategies can I use to stay organized and manage stress?
- Who can I reach out to for support if I encounter challenges?
Write your responses in a journal or share them with a peer or your clinical instructor at the beginning of your placement to help guide your experience.
