Struggling to complete procedure log requirements, any thoughts?

[tiramisu1]

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I'm in my first clinical year. We have a certain number of required procedures to perform during each clinical rotation. We’re expected to perform and get sign-offs, which is usually fine, but like 1-2 out of 10 are universally hard to catch as students. My friends and I have tried everything - paying close attention in rounds, asking the junior doctors and nurses, leaving our contacts, hanging around treatment rooms, going to the ED, going at odd hours etc.

We’re willing to learn and practice, but understandably, it’s not their priority to notify us when an opportunity comes up. Bolder students have come up with alternative ways to check off the boxes.

When the hunt gets to the point of becoming counterproductive, what are practical or acceptable ways to complete these requirements? Is it normal to feel uncomfortable and out of place?

 

[operaman]

Can you specify which ones you’re talking about?

I seemed to have a knack for getting procedures as a student. My trick was to either help set up or ask to do the part right before the procedure. 9/10 times when you’re standing there in position and ready the supervising doc will give you a shot at whatever you’re doing.

 

[Smurfette]

I'm in my first clinical year. We have a certain number of required procedures to perform during each clinical rotation. We’re expected to perform and get sign-offs, which is usually fine, but like 1-2 out of 10 are universally hard to catch as students. My friends and I have tried everything - paying close attention in rounds, asking the junior doctors and nurses, leaving our contacts, hanging around treatment rooms, going to the ED, going at odd hours etc.

What procedures are you talking about and is it just 1 of each procedure or multiple?

We’re willing to learn and practice, but understandably, it’s not their priority to notify us when an opportunity comes up. Bolder students have come up with alternative ways to check off the boxes.

When the hunt gets to the point of becoming counterproductive, what are practical or acceptable ways to complete these requirements?

It would help to know the specific things you are trying to do. Also, are you doing clinicals at hospitals affiliated with your school or are you at a different site because you are a caribbean or DO student with a list of things per rotation that the school has no actual control/connections to ensure you get?

Is it normal to feel uncomfortable and out of place?

Yes. Very much so. That feeling continues into residency, fellowship and attendinghood and fades when you start getting comfortable and comes back every time there's a big change.