The diverse and ever-changing nature of a career in Medicine is something that has always appealed to me. Although it is a challenging career in all aspects, after speaking with many doctors I learnt how gratifying and rewarding it can also be. As a current Biomedical Sciences finalist, I have thoroughly explored my interest in science and would like to continue by studying Medicine.
In order to gain an insight into a hospital work environment, I spent time shadowing a doctor in the Endoscopy unit. During this time I observed a handful of endoscopy procedures such as a colonoscopy and laryngoscopy. By observing the how the doctor communicates with the patient, I identified the skill of empathising required. The experience gave me an insight into the teamwork that occurs between the nurses and doctors during such procedures, thus highlighting the importance of a doctor as a team member rather than an individual. Alongside this 'one off' experience, I was able to secure weekly shadowing at a GP surgery. I found this very useful as I was able to shadow a medical student who was training at the GP surgery. Through talking with the student, I learnt how challenging the medical course
…show more content…
Personally, I felt I learnt the most from this experience. Although less clinically orientated, it exposed me to the reality of senility and physical ageing present in elderly people. My role included assisting residents with daily chores (such as showering, getting dressed and eating) and at other times just sitting and talking with them. The work there helped develop my empathy and communication skills as well as learning how to work actively in a team with the other carers. The work I carried out was greatly differing from anything I had done before but enabled me to gain confidence in my ability to cope in such