Final answer:
Setting expectations for an upcoming clinical includes reflecting on skills mastered in the lab, like injections or patient assessments, and identifying areas for improvement such as time management. Establishing objectives for development and seeking feedback are key to a successful clinical experience.
Step-by-step explanation:
When approaching an upcoming clinical placement, it is normal to set expectations and goals for what you wish to achieve. Having honed skills in a laboratory setting, you might feel confident in certain procedures or patient interactions. For example, you may have excelled in administering injections or conducting patient assessments in the skills lab, and thus look forward to performing these competencies in a real-world clinical setting.
On the other hand, self-reflection is key to identifying areas for improvement. You may want to focus on areas such as time management, developing a stronger rapport with patients, or becoming more proficient at electronic health record documentation. Setting clear objectives for personal and professional development can help you utilize your clinical experience as a valuable learning opportunity. Continuously seeking feedback from supervisors and peers is also an important aspect of growth during clinical placements.