My 4th rotation was Pediatrics at Queens Hospital Center and it was a great learning experience. The rotation was split into 3 weeks in the Emergency Room, 1 week in the NICU, and 1 week in the clinic. It was a great variety and I was able to learn a lot through this rotation. I was able to see Pediatrics in different settings and work with various providers including doctors, PAs, and NPs. In the ER, I I was able to strengthen my basic skills like history taking and performing focused physical exams. I was able to do some simple procedures like strep tests, flu tests, and venipunctures.

The NICU was also a great experience because although some patients were similar from the day before, there would be a big change in their appearance from the day before. For example, some would no longer tolerated breast milk and others wouldnt tolerate formula. It was really important to stay positive while being with the patient and the family. The clinic was also a good experience as I was able to be with different specialties (cardio, pulm, and primary care). This allowed me to see experts in their respective fields and learn from them.

Overall, this rotation was challenging at times in terms of physical exam because it was difficult to do physical exams on patients at times. The patients were young and would begin to cry a lot so it was really important to make them feel comfortable first before beginning the physical exam. I was able to learn this in my first 3 weeks of the ER and helped me out in the clinic. I hope to use the skills I’ve learned in my next rotation: Ambulatory Care in Hicksville.