5 tips for your first shift on a new ward

By on
0 comments

 

When you work in healthcare you will face new challenges daily; it’s the nature of the job. Working bank, you might understand this more than most, as you could be working across a real variety of wards, locations and teams.

Not all challenges are bad, though. Bank offers you a fantastic opportunity to learn new skills, develop your network and continue to grow professionally through new experiences.

When it comes to your first shift on a new ward, you’ll naturally want to make a good first impression and ensure the shift goes smoothly. Read on to discover our top tips for your first shift: .


  1. Give yourself plenty of time to find the ward
  2. If you are not sure of the ward location, then it is worth giving yourself extra time to get there. Don’t be afraid to ask for directions. If you are working with Bank Partners, we have onsite teams dedicated to helping you. They will be more than happy to advise you of the best way to get to the ward and answer any other questions you might have about the shift.

  3. Prepare!
  4. It’s worth checking with whoever you booked the shift through if you need to bring anything on the day. Although you likely will not need anything specific, you can use this as an opportunity to reconfirm the shift and ask any more questions.

  5. Introduce yourself to the manager and team
  6. Take the time to introduce yourself properly to your manager - let them know your name and the company you are from. If you have any questions about specifics or any concerns, you can take the time to talk to them now. Then introduce yourself to the rest of the team. This makes a great first impression and lets everyone know you’re here to support them.

  7. Don’t be afraid to ask questions
  8. If you are unsure about anything then it is much better to ask. If you don’t know where things are, or don’t know how to do something, then you could end up delaying someone’s treatment. If someone asks you to do something and you feel unsure, tell them straight away. People will respect you more for it.

  9. Thank the team at the end of the shift
  10. Thank your colleagues for their help, support and direction. It will help them remember you fondly, therefore growing your professional network and perhaps leading to them requesting to work with you again in the future.

If you would like to join Bank Partners, you can see all of our family of trusts here.

Post a comment
Note: We will not publish your email address on the site