When it’s quiet (what do I do?)
- Ask qualified and trainee vets, nurses and receptionists if there is something you can do to help (tip: if you are eager to help out, the offer usually results in a very grateful response and will almost certainly pay dividends in the long term)
- Show initiative by suggesting a job or getting on with jobs you can do rather than waiting to be asked
- Spend time with the inpatients, encouraging them to eat or making them feel relaxed – you may need to check with the nurse first
- Body language is important – recognise the signs you may be giving as well as body language of others – they may have other work to do such as paperwork and phone calls even in their ‘breaks’
“There is always cleaning. Or revision. You should never be sitting on your bum – that’s what they hate the most, and never say you are doing ‘nothing’!!”
A tip from a student.