Hello! My name is Sibylle Kern, and I am a Sodexo dietetic intern in the distance program located in Denver, CO. I am currently halfway through my clinical rotation at Rose Medical Center. I previously worked at Rose in a diet tech position while I was in school. I believe it has been a huge advantage for me as an intern to have previously worked there. I have used this experience to walk patients through the menu and help them come up with ideas when on a special diet. Seeing food service in the hospital from a different perspective has allowed me to make recommendations to enhance communication between the dietitians and the food service department. Dietitians often receive valuable feedback about the food and service during a patient interview. Due to my recommendation, they now have a form to write down feedback, which will be sent to the patient services manager each week.
I have had some very exciting opportunities to watch two bariatric surgeries, a PICC line placement, and have observed a wound care nurse while she placed a wound VAC and changed an ostomy pouch. I have always thought I had a low tolerance for blood/injuries. However, I was surprised to find myself eager to watch these procedures. I feel so lucky to have these opportunities because it truly helps put the whole picture of my patients together. Watching these procedures is much different than seeing a picture in a textbook and allows you to observe other members of the care team. Since seeing these procedures, I have gone into my patients’ rooms with a fuller understanding of what they have been through up until that point. I have compassion for my patients and love to feel like I can help them feel more comfortable. With my advanced clinical rotation coming up, I look forward to using the tools and knowledge I have gained to take care of the critically ill.
My advice to future interns is to connect with your fellow interns. The internship can feel isolating at times; sometimes you have to say no to activities with friends and family to get internship work done. Staying in touch with other interns who understand what you’re going through can be a huge relief.
My advice to future interns is to connect with your fellow interns. The internship can feel isolating at times; sometimes you have to say no to activities with friends and family to get internship work done. Staying in touch with other interns who understand what you’re going through can be a huge relief.
