- Be mentally prepared
It's tough but... it's possible!
TOUGH?
If you thought that those 3 years of theoretical preparation attending classes and submitting assignments is enough, you need to sit back and listen. It's not enough at all. They are just basics. There's still a lot to learn along the way.
POSSIBLE?
Yes, it's possible! It depends on how much you are willing to go and keep learning new things. All patients are different and they won't have the same medical problem. Most of them would have at least 3 diagnosis and through your attachment, you need to keep learning and keep updating because you might will even come across new things like disease you never heard before.
- Things you need to take note
You might think that you will only be dealing with nutritional aspect in managing these patients. Flash news, no. There are other things you need to consider before deciding what is the nutritional diagnosis and planing your nutritional intervention. I'll list down what you have to take note on
a) Biochemical data interpretation
b) Medication prescription that could affect nutritional status (loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, gastrointestinal symptoms) and biochemical data (eg: causing elevated blood sugar)
c) All the things you learnt during your first 3 years (medical nutrition therapy and nutrition care process) - Be an active learner
I cannot stress this more. This is really, really important! That is if you want to survive clinical year. Always keep learning to understand your patients. Every time you come across new things say like maybe a disease or condition you never heard of, look up on it and understand them. This way, you will be able to execute proper diagnosis and intervention for patients. It's not hard, you just have to always fill the gap to answer all these questions you have in your mind.
Key point? Keep learning and be passionate. - Keep a personal handbook
It is always good to keep a handy notebook for your own references and convenience. This handbook will have important things like formulas for calculating energy requirements, biochemical data interpretations, weight loss and malnutrition classification and other things you'll find important to have it handy. Be committed to always update it with important and relevant references each time you found something useful to guide you in doing your nutrition care process. Get a size that can fit in your white coat (or lab coat) pocket. Trust me, it will help you a lot. - Stay optimistic
I would be lying if I say it's easy all the way. I know that I look tough but I have to admit that I did cry on occasional times. If you are not stressed, struggling or hectic, you are not living the student life. There are times when people would judge you (honestly yes), look down or even do or say something that would somehow hurts, offends and just brought you down. My advice? Go on, let it go, let it all out. Cry if you have to, it's okay to cry. But promise to yourself (not anyone else but you), that you will get back and get up to push forward. If you have no one to talk to, remember you have you. Don't let yourself down. At least look on the bright side and always think positive.
How do I stay sane and optimistic? I love working out. I would always find time in between my busy schedule to workout (I'm staying in a condominium at Setapak and they have gym), swim (and swimming pool) or if I feel like it, I dance (and a yoga/dance studio). Do what you love. Don't let others define who you are. You do you.
I guess that is all for now. If you have any questions do drop a comment and I will try my best to answer as soon as possible.
Regards,
Maxmilliana Fidelis
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