I’m just about halfway through my 38-week placement, so I thought it’d be an appropriate time to compile some thoughts on my experience(s) thus far.
Ask questions. You’re not expected to know everything going into practicum – but you are expected to soak up plenty of knowledge while you’re there. Whether it is clarification on something that was said or done, or just something you’re curious about, your preceptors are there to help to the best of their abilities.
Take notes. As important as it is to be mentally present in the lab, I always have a notebook close by to write down any words or phrases that might be useful to revisit after my shift. You could have a different preceptor every day of the week, and should come prepared in that you aren’t starting from a blank slate each time.
Be professional. Adhering to the employee dress code and showing up on time (early!) is a big part of professionalism, but the sentiment runs deeper than that. Be conscious of how you carry yourself. Be a team player! Standing around doing nothing is never a good look; if the bench you are training on is all caught up, see if you can help elsewhere. Or, if it is okay with your preceptor, use the time to study.
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Keep an open mind. Though the general procedures and end results are the same, every technologist will have a slightly different way of doing things. Take the time to experiment with all of what your preceptors have shown you, so you can find what works best in terms of personal comfort and efficiency.
Be social! I know it sounds tacky, but guess what? There are other students going through the exact same experience(s) as you are—and your preceptors could soon be your colleagues. Interaction can be intimidating – especially if you’re in a new city and more reserved like myself – but I’ve been fortunate enough to meet some really nice people in Kelowna. Sometimes you just need to unwind on the weekends and do non-hospital stuff, like go out for food. Or binge-watch Nailed It! on Netflix.
Take advantage of educational opportunities and other resources available at your site. In Kelowna there seems to be a lecture or presentation by a pathologist every other week – and the student coordinator here is fantastic with keeping us informed on those things. The topics can be quite interesting and applicable to both the lab and preparing for the CSMLS certification exam; they also offer a breather from the ceaseless workflow of the benches.
Read more of Natalie’s journey in the Medical Laboratory Science program at BCIT.