PROFESSIONAL OBJECTIVES:
Objective 1: To learn and understand the most major and/or common neurological traumas and ailments, the signs and symptoms that accompany them, and the treatments that can be given to a patient with them.
Activities/Resources:
Attending weekly presentations/conferences with my supervisor where new cases are discussed including Monday conferences, Radiology Grand Rounds, and Tumor Board
Reading and referencing neurosurgical handbooks for anatomy, procedures, and terminology, and handouts provided by the Neurosurgery team
Reviewing charts and scans and observing verbal exams for patients on the Neurosurgery floor
Evidence
Include in my portfolio my assessment of a mock case study of a fictitious patient for which I will assess their state of neurological health using the education I have obtained during my stay in the neurosurgery department
Include in my portfolio a list of commonly used medical terminology frequently referenced in the neurosurgical field
Objective 2: To create an informational booklet that will discuss the most common physical, emotional, and psychological side effects that patient's going through cancer treatments face and find out what, if any, newer treatments are being offered by Rhode Island Hospital.
Activities/Resources:
Obtaining treatment information from lead caregivers in the Cancer Center and Radiation-Oncology
Discuss with a cancer patient the toll cancer treatments have on them physically, mentally, and emotionally
Research newly developed/developing cancer treatments using medically recognized journals and other sources
Evidence:
Include in my portfolio the booklet I created comparing a common cancer treatment to a relatively newer treatment the Comprehensive Cancer Center at Rhode Island Hospital. The booklet will offer pros, cons, and limitations to both of the cancer treatments
Include in my portfolio an outline of symptoms one can experience during treatment and how caregivers can help
Objective 3: To learn how to properly interact with patients and their families by establishing a professional connection while still conveying compassion, interest, and genuine care and providing them with both the physical and psychological support that they may need.
Activities/Resources:
Interview families to discuss what they find to be the most comforting treatment given by health care professionals in such an emotional and stressful time
Discuss with my supervisor what may be the most tactful approach to dealing with both the patient and his/her family
Discuss with my coworkers the most difficult aspects of working with children and what the best way to overcome them may be
Evidence:
Include in my portfolio a pamphlet I created that helps new pediatric health care providers with adjusting to working with children and their families in hospital setting.
