I went down to the new clinic to practice taking xrays on the mannequins. We don't take enough radiographs in clinic to be quick at it, so I think that timing us as we did a FMX was helpful. It just made us aware that even though we had 3 hours, we couldn't (and shouldn't) take that long. Even though it wasn't easy taking the radiographs on the Dexters, it was a good learning experience. Placing the plates exactly where we want them, squeezing the handles on top of their head to open and close their mouths, moving their tongues out of the way with our fingers are all part of the challenge.
After processing them, we were given feedback on how we did. We critiqued our own images and figured out what was wrong (and right) about them and how we could improve them next time. I have taken bitewings on a patient since then and found that it was a little easier. Although the people in the radiology clinic are helpful, it can be very hectic. So, having the time in the other clinic to practice is definitely a good thing.
I definitely agree with you. While the Dexters are not very realistic, the downstairs clinic is very helpful. I've greatly improved my x-ray taking technique. I definitely hope for the incoming class that faculty will consider scheduling the radiology rotation once a week for 2-3 weeks per student. That way the students can't forget what they needed to improve from the last visit. I wish we had gone into the downstairs clinic last semester, it was hectic trying to take the x-rays before a student needed the area. I also feel that the new class should have an orientation in which they will have to bring back a "patient" and go through every step. When I came in last semester I had no idea of what to do, where my patient needed to be, if I clean up or the person helping. It was a very frustrating visit. I would hope that the new class would receive some training in this before making the mistakes when having a real patient. Glad you enjoyed radiology, thanks for sharing!
ReplyDelete