First Impression

[RobbingReality]

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As a second year how can I make a good impression upon a ED physician when I shadow him? I left the question broad but I know most of the answers will be common sense.

 

[EM_Rebuilder]

As a second year how can I make a good impression upon a ED physician when I shadow him? I left the question broad but I know most of the answers will be common sense.

Be cool, go often, dont get in the way, ask them to show you how to suture (extra kudos if you already know or can get someone else to teach you...MS3 or 4 would be a good choice)..... they will then hopefully allow you to do some of the suturing on your on (dont be afraid to ask Hey can I sew this up for you...assuming you know how).

Dont ask too many questions (ask a few... not disinterested...but nobody wants someone asking WHY about EVERYTHING!). When a consult comes down, espically one that may do a procedure, run off with them for a few mins. When a trauma comes in, have you shears ready and cut the clothes off... pull the board when they roll the patient (otherwise, steer clear and dont be in the way).

Offer to go get dinner, coffee, etc....espically if you stay several hours.

Try to also stick with the same doc or just a select few (if totally clash with one, try another on). As they get to know you more, the better chance of getting to do more while working with them.

I got to put a chest tube in while an MSI ( I had sutured until I stopped counting, put a few shoulders/hips back in, helped do some splints/casting, tried some art lines...all before MS3 year)...I went to the ED often (monthly at least) and I formulated what I said above from my experiences...It seemed to work.... I think I made some good relationships (now training at one of the attendings residency alma mater)...

Good Luck..

 

[jbar]

You might want to ask about the cutting the clothes off during a trauma thing. I've been in two trauma centers where the rath of God (trauma surgeon) will come down on any medical student near a full trauma patient. I've actually seen a red line on the trauma bay in some places that you are supposed to stand behind. If they ask you to help, jump in, but it's one of the few situations where I've seen people get really antsy about med students.