Hello everyone-- I’m Megan. I moved about 4 hours south from Jacksonville to Bradenton, FL to complete my clinical and foodservice management rotations. My first rotation was clinical, which was very daunting to me especially in a new city where I didn’t know anyone. My nerves were immediately put at ease once I met the Sodexo dietitians though. They made me feel competent and capable and were SO helpful every single day. After a few short weeks of shadowing the RDs, I was going up to patient’s rooms on my own, assessing and charting independently. By the end of clinical, I could confidently diagnose malnutrition and calculate EN/TPN calculations with accuracy. I never thought I would like nutrition support before I started clinical, and now I love it!
Among many things I learned from my preceptors, I received a lot of insight to the art of charting - that is, only including the important information that you need to. Learning to document in the EMR efficiently is so important for a new RD going into the workforce.
Among many things I learned from my preceptors, I received a lot of insight to the art of charting - that is, only including the important information that you need to. Learning to document in the EMR efficiently is so important for a new RD going into the workforce.
My advice to incoming interns is to go in with an open mind and try to meet as many people as you can during your time at the hospital. You can learn something from every person, whether it is talking to a nurse, a floor tech, a neurologist, a cashier, a pharmacist, etc. Make sure to introduce yourself and try to make relationships- they are helpful to have and also help with confidence. Also, when you have a hard day remember it is temporary and goes by so fast. I still cannot believe I am over halfway through my internship; the amount of growth I have experienced these past couple months is insane.
My directors have been incredible and flexible, I know every intern has mentioned this, but working through COVID-19 has added a new layer of obstacles for everyone. I always know I can email or call my advisor with any question and she is always there for me. You never feel alone in this process, even if you are the only intern at your location. I am so happy to be a part of Sodexo’s dietetic internship; I would recommend this program to everyone. They truly are the best!
My directors have been incredible and flexible, I know every intern has mentioned this, but working through COVID-19 has added a new layer of obstacles for everyone. I always know I can email or call my advisor with any question and she is always there for me. You never feel alone in this process, even if you are the only intern at your location. I am so happy to be a part of Sodexo’s dietetic internship; I would recommend this program to everyone. They truly are the best!
