Written by: c2024 Medical Student at McMaster University, Hamilton Campus Where was your placement and what specialty was it in?
I did a 1-week post-MF4 elective in ER at Grimsby (West Lincoln Memorial Hospital.) How did you get to your placement? I drove (20-25 mins from Hamilton), and did not qualify for Mac-Care funding. Parking was right beside the hospital and reasonable daily price - I only spent 4 shifts here, so did not look into parking pass. Describe a typical day at your elective. Small ER, friendly staff. I worked with several different preceptors, and each had a different style. Some would assign certain patients, others would allow me to see whichever cases interested me. There was ample opportunity for practicing procedures at this location. What level of responsibility/exposure did you have as a medical student? I had quite a bit of independence, especially given this was my first post-MF4 elective. I saw patients independently for history and physical, then would review with staff. I was taught how to suture and had several opportunities to practice that skill, and also assisted with casting and various other procedures. What are some common conditions you saw? MSK injuries, falls, head injury, migraine, lacerations, abscesses, acute decompensated HF, stroke, abdo pain, anaphylaxis, etc What is your most memorable experience from this elective? Suturing practice! What was one thing you didn’t like? Some of the preceptors don't have students often, so it's important to touch base at the beginning of the shift re: your stage of training and comfort level with various aspects of patient care. What’s one future advice you have for students doing an elective here in the future? Take advantage of the opportunity to be very hands on - get involved as much as possible, the preceptors are very willing to let you try things! Would you recommend this elective to current students? Definitely!
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West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, background credit: wlmhfoundation.ca/about
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