Hello! My name is Brianne Brathwaite and I’m a region 3 intern. I just finished up my basic clinical rotation at White Plains Hospital in Westchester, NY. Honestly, this rotation exceeded all my expectations. Prior to the start of this rotation, I was nervous to jump right in at a hospital. However, I have learned so much. I was challenged every day with a variety of patients, all having many different medical conditions. This experience taught me to learn how to prioritize care to deliver the best results (you will never be able to solve every problem, but you can solve the most important one at the time). In encountering so many different cases, I have strengthened my MNT (medical nutrition therapy) knowledge. I learned proper documentation skills, which helped me to effectively read and interpret medial notes.
With this experience, I also had opportunities to explore parts of clinical nutrition I hadn’t realized were available. I had an opportunity to connect with patients and staff by sampling recipes in the cafeteria (the picture below shows me sampling Low Carb Apple Crisp). This experience was rewarding in the sense that I could extend my knowledge to not just patients, but to staff as well! Many of the staff said that they also had questions about nutrition and were happy to have the chance to try healthier recipes.
With this experience, I also had opportunities to explore parts of clinical nutrition I hadn’t realized were available. I had an opportunity to connect with patients and staff by sampling recipes in the cafeteria (the picture below shows me sampling Low Carb Apple Crisp). This experience was rewarding in the sense that I could extend my knowledge to not just patients, but to staff as well! Many of the staff said that they also had questions about nutrition and were happy to have the chance to try healthier recipes.
This hospital had many opportunities for community outreach, and I was given the opportunity to give a presentation to seniors at a nearby community center. The presentation focused on teaching the attendees normal levels for blood pressure, A1c, cholesterol, triglycerides, and BMI highlighting why they are important. This experience allowed me to see that there are many sides to clinical.
Overall, I have had such an amazing experience and learned how to connect and help so many different patients. I learned that having good communication and listening skills come in handy when conducting a nutrition assessment. Having a positive upbeat energy helps to put patients at ease. I am excited to continue to my next clinical rotation and I know I will learn even more than before!
Overall, I have had such an amazing experience and learned how to connect and help so many different patients. I learned that having good communication and listening skills come in handy when conducting a nutrition assessment. Having a positive upbeat energy helps to put patients at ease. I am excited to continue to my next clinical rotation and I know I will learn even more than before!
