4th year tips / necessities

[vetmed4life15]

Advertisement - Members don't see this ad

Hello! I am beginning clinical year in a couple of weeks and wanted to get everyone's opinions on what things are a necessity to have in the clinics. I have purchased a good bag and have the basic veterinary needs (stethoscope and case, bandage scissors, watch, calculator, etc etc) but wanted to see if there's anything that is super helpful to have.

 

[VIN-Foundation]

Good shoes and a good attitude.

Snacks are also helpful.

 

[JaynaAli]

A fast thermometer. A variety of comfortable shoes (surgery shoes, small animal shoes, and large animal shoes). A belt. Lots of pens and highlighters. Extra device chargers. And yes, snacks. Invest in a good insulated lunch bag so you don’t necessarily need to put stuff in a fridge or freezer if you’re going to be bringing perishable stuff. The plumbs app is handy, not sure if there’s a discounted student option or not.

 

[battie]

Heated blanket for the super cold rounds rooms

 

[pp9]

Heated blanket for the super cold rounds rooms

Lol were you that person?!

A backup set of clothes (could leave in your car or something if your school doesn't give you a locker), instant pot or air fryer for quick meals, phone charger dedicated for your backpack so you always have it, travel sized personal items for your bag (deodorant, meds that apply to you, etc), an ID tag for your stethoscope and anything else you don't want 'walking away,' extra pairs of contacts in your bag if that applies, etc.

Basically anything you're going to wish you had on a 12+ hour work day, or in the event you get called in overnight and have to roll into the next day and you can't leave the hospital.

 

[Nigripes]

Candy, cookies, or baked goods from a grocery store on either day two or three. Not expensive stuff and not a lot, but bringing in for the nurses or residents/ interns especially on overnight shifts can help with building good relationships. Not bribery, but it shows that you want to make a good impression.

 

[supershorty]

Candy, cookies, or baked goods from a grocery store on either day two or three. Not expensive stuff and not a lot, but bringing in for the nurses or residents/ interns especially on overnight shifts can help with building good relationships. Not bribery, but it shows that you want to make a good impression.

As an intern who works with a lot of students... please don't do this. It just feels awkward and looks like being a tryhard.

What makes a good impression is showing up each day with a good attitude, being involved and invested in your cases, asking questions (at appropriate times), and getting your records done in a timely manner. THAT costs nothing, helps the team out, and teaches you things along the way.