Lauren Gielas - Region 6

Hi! My name is Lauren Gielas and I am currently doing my internship in Chattanooga, TN. I am originally from Colorado but took a leap of faith and moved across the country to Chattanooga, TN, for my internship. It has been an amazing experience and I have learned so much since starting in September.
 
My favorite rotation so far has been clinical. I have always had an interest in chronic diseases and how nutrition can help. I am currently doing my rotation at a level 1 trauma hospital and have been exposed to everything from chronic diseases to severe trauma patients. I am about to start my staff relief and have chosen to do the GI floors along with a mix of trauma. The dietitians have been so nice and patient with me through these last 12 weeks. They have really helped me feel confident in a clinical setting and to understand each disease by breaking down each patient’s chart.
 
While I am learning at the hospital, there are assignments on the side that have helped me understand the different diseases, so I feel confident when seeing patients. I would say the hardest part has been charting and trying to focus on what is important from a nutrition point of view. Patients in the hospital have so much going on and it is easy to get lost in all the notes. I recommend asking a lot of questions and to not be afraid to fail. This is the time to learn, fail and grow. I am having such a blast and looking forward every day to be one step closer to become an RDN.

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