Episode 47. This episode is part 4 of a series on clinical rotations. I am speaking from my medical school experience, but you may find this helpful as a PA student or nursing student as well. This episode's topics include how to prepare for surgical rotations (especially general surgery and OB/GYN), how to get and take advantage of opportunities to learn hands-on skills and procedures, and how to do OMM/OMT while on rotations. I also cover a few important points about professionalism that you probably haven't thought about. The end of the episodes contains some important tips about pimping.
Here are some highlights from this episode:
On preparing for surgical rotations: It may help to read up on the surgery/procedure and review relevant anatomy the night before.
On procedures: Be around and ready to help. If there is something you want to do, ask the preceptor if they would like help with it or if they can show it to you. Asking ahead of time is better than in the room in front of the patient. Many times opportunities will be offered. Make sure you react enthusiastically and gratefully so that more opportunities will then be given to you. If you see your preceptor put on gloves, put on gloves (even if they get wasted). In surgeries, put on regular gloves before scrubbing in; you might get the chance to help with anesthesia.
On OMM: I will take time to diagnose a somatic dysfunction and report it to my preceptor with recommendation to do OMM in my plan. It is then up to the preceptor to decide if they are comfortable with supervising me and having me assist with the treatment. I’ve found that many DO preceptors will let you perform OMM, especially DO residents. Do not do OMM without approval first. You wouldn't be able to give a patient medication or perform a procedure without your preceptor, and OMM is no different.
On professionalism: Don’t ask where someone went to med school. Remember computer etiquette. Ask if there anything else you can help with at the end of the day.
Pimping: Remember that this is a teaching method. Anki is the best preparation for this.
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