A new clinical placement can be daunting for a student. Kate Chapman explains a ward programme that is helping to develop competent nurses

Learners often report feelings of anxiety when asked about their first day in any new clinical environment. Looking back to my experiences, I remember trying to blend in and not to make any foolish comments or mistakes. But the difficulties a new clinical environment poses can be overlooked all too easily These difficulties needto be taken into account when trying to familiarise and reassure new members of staff.