International Nurses Association - What does a nursing student look like?

What does a nursing student look like?

You can actually spot a nursing student from a mile. They have these typical characteristics that make it easy to distinguish them in a crowd. Yes, they are professionals and they have these traits that are distinct to the nursing profession. For every person how we carry ourselves to a large extent determines what people perceive us to be. While doing a course in nursing, candidates are groomed to dress professionally just like the hospitality industry. How the nurse looks, talks a lot about their level for professionalism in the job. The typical attire of the nursing student comprises of the following: • Fresh scrubs: Unlike most other professional setups, nurses do not have the liberty of walking into the hospital with casual clothing. Health care setups these days work at providing smart and easily maintainable scrubs for the nurses and nursing students. As a part of the grooming course, every nursing student is instructed to walk into the healthcare set up in freshly washed and well ironed scrubs. It is extremely difficult to maintain the cleanliness of the uniform, but it is something their job demands. • Shoes that are slip-resistant and comfortable: The job of a nurse is one of the most demanding jobs physically. It requires the nurses to be on their toes, running around, standing long hours as well as lifting and moving heavy objects. Wearing uncomfortable shoes is a strict no no as it could put unnecessary pressure on the legs and back. So, when you see a nursing

student you will always find them wearing comfortable shoes that facilitate easy movement without straining the legs.

• Stethoscope worn more often than necessary: A stethoscope is to a doctor, what a necklace is to a dancer. Yes, funny as it may sound but a stethoscope is almost like an accessory worn by medical practitioners.

Nursing students take immense pride wearing a stethoscope around their necks and you may even find them wearing one as they walk into a cafeteria to grab a coffee.

• Hands full of books and notes: Who said that its only the job of doctors to study the big fat medical books. Being a nursing student is not easy either and does require in depth study and knowledge of medical terms and procedures. In fact a nursing student has to be fluent with the latest happenings in the medical world and hence have to keep themselves abreast with the subjects at all times. A nursing student always finds time to catch up on some studies preparing for the tests and exams in between patients and practical training lessons. Hence don't be surprised if you see a nursing students carrying books more than what she could, its just what their job demands.

• A backpack full of supplies of all kinds: So, if you have wondered what a nursing student is carrying in the heavy ever bulging back pack that could easily fit a human inside, you’d be surprised. Their backpack is full of books, hospital supplies and stationary supplies to help them stay equipped for the day. Being a nursing student means to balance practical training being on the floor with the patients as well managing their course demands. An efficient nursing student is always prepared with the supplies in the backpack they carry.