Ryan Karnik

• Completed a three-day non-medical observership in the department of Neurology at Singapore General Hospital from the 21st of August 2024 to the 23rd of August 2024.
• Attached to a Neurology team covering the general Neurology wards getting a brief overview of the routine functioning of a Neurology ward.
• Following the team during the ward rounds, and thus was able to observe how doctors communicate with the patients, how a routine day in the ward is like, and how the nurses take care of the inpatients.
• Observed some simple procedures like blood collection through venipuncture and collecting arterial blood sample for arterial blood gas analysis.
• Opportunity to attend one neurology outpatient clinic for half a day during this observership
• Assisted physicians during examinations and procedures, ensuring efficient communication of information between healthcare providers.

Clinical Observation in a General Physician Clinic (3 Days)

• Patient Consultations: Observed various cases, including flu, chest pain, and musculoskeletal issues.
• Flu Patient: Monitored temperature, O2 levels, and heart rate using pulse oximeter and stethoscope.
  Musculoskeletal Pain: Assisted in back pain assessment, identifying muscle stiffness due to prolonged sitting.
• Doctor-Patient Communication: Learned the importance of empathy, privacy, and patient rapport. Noticed how the doctor personalized care through detailed questioning about patient history, work environment, and lifestyle.

Diagnostic Procedures:

• ECG/EKG Observation: Assisted with the setup and gel application for ECG using suction cups.
  General Exams: Observed physical exams including palpation, auscultation, and risk assessments.
• Infection Control Protocols: Observed proper handwashing, glove usage, and sanitization practices to minimize cross-contamination.
• Administrative Experience: Observed the doctor reviewing insurance coverage, documenting medical histories, and writing referrals for specialists.

This experience provided hands-on exposure to general practice, deepened my understanding of patient care, and enhanced my clinical skills as an aspiring medical student.

• General Pediatric Consultations: I observed the treatment of common pediatric conditions like respiratory infections, gastrointestinal issues, and fever management. The doctors carefully monitored symptoms, prescribed medications, and advised on preventive care.
• Neonatal Care: I observed the management of neonatal conditions like jaundice, low birth weight, and respiratory distress. I also witnessed how pediatricians handled critical situations in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) and the importance of prompt medical intervention.
• Developmental Assessments: I saw how doctors assessed developmental milestones in infants and young children, using growth charts and developmental screening tools to identify any delays in motor skills, language, and cognitive abilities.
• Vaccinations: I observed the administration of vaccines and learned about the national immunization schedule in India. I understood the significance of timely vaccinations in preventing common childhood diseases like measles, mumps, and rubella.