Managing your Time with Students

Your time with our students is limited. You’re busy with the demands inherent in running your practice and serving your patients. However, it is possible to precept students and be successful in your clinical productivity. That’s why we encourage you to formulate a reusable plan and to follow the PLAN formula at the beginning of each shift.

P – Present

L – List

A – Ask

N – Note

Present the daily plan. Have a standard plan available that you can use as a template and alter each time.

List expectations such that the student knows exactly what they are responsible for. If something did not go smoothly on a previous occasion, make sure you emphasize how you expect the student to handle it this time.

Ask questions to make sure the student understands expectations. You may need to ask:

• Are you comfortable performing the X procedure?
• What will you do if X happens?

Note exceptions to the typical plan and potential obstacles.

An effective plan is:

• Recyclable: You should only have to make minor tweaks to the plan each day.
• Simple: Make it easy to follow and communicate. Use as few words as possible.
• Visual: Use color or icons to make it easier to comprehend.
• Brief: You should be able to review the plan, ask questions, and close the planning meeting out in 5-8 minutes.

Planning is the best way to set both you and your student up for the most time-efficient experience. Take the time to craft your standard plan today.