Rachel Bottarini - Region 3

During my time as an intern with Sodexo, I had the privilege of completing a clinical rotation that truly expanded my understanding of nutrition’s role in patient care. This experience was  so valuable in shaping both my knowledge and my passion for dietetics. I had the chance to observe dietitians in a hospital setting and learn from their hands-on approach to supporting patients through personalized nutrition plans.

One of the most impactful aspects of my clinical rotation was seeing a full assessment done on a patient and seeing how dietitians collaborate with physicians and other healthcare professionals. It was fascinating to witness how they used nutrition to enhance patient outcomes, particularly for those recovering from surgery or managing chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease. I remember one case in particular: A patient recovering from surgery was struggling to regain strength, and the dietitian carefully created nutrition recommendations that included high-protein needs and suggested essential vitamins to support recovery. The dietitian’s approach was about understanding the patient’s needs and how nutrition could play a key role in their healing. This experience really emphasized how dietitians are important members of the healthcare team.

In addition to observing patient assessments, I had the opportunity to help develop nutrition education materials for patients. One of my tasks was to create easily understandable handouts that provided practical advice on managing a renal diet at home for dialysis patients. It was incredible to see how something as simple as a well-designed handout could have such a significant impact on a person's understanding of their conditions and their ability to manage their diet effectively. Throughout my clinical rotation, I was impressed by the dietitians' ability to combine scientific knowledge with empathy and communication. I realized that being a successful dietitian isn’t just about knowing nutritional science; it’s about tailoring that knowledge to each patient’s unique circumstances. It’s about building trust, educating, and making nutrition accessible, even when dealing with complex medical conditions. This approach to patient care was a key takeaway that I’ll carry with me throughout my career.
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The clinical rotation also gave me a deeper appreciation for the broader scope of dietetics. It’s not just about providing advice on food choices; it’s about understanding the individual needs of patients, the challenges they face, and how dietitians can make a tangible difference in their health. This experience has solidified my desire to pursue a career where I can have a direct impact on patients’ lives, improving their health and well-being through nutrition. Looking back, this rotation was one of the most rewarding parts of my internship. It provided me with valuable skills and insight into how dietitians contribute to the healthcare team. 

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