As a nursing student on placement, you may see skills or practice being carried out differently to the way you have been taught at university. This may be due to the nursing team member’s experience or understanding of their patient, or due to outdated practice. Challenging outdated practice helps ensure patient safety and supports student development. Our panel including a nursing student, newly registered nurse and nursing lecturers offer advice on asking questions respectfully if you witness this on placement, including speaking up about patient safety and escalating concerns if needed.