Clinical rotations are an exciting and critical part of medical training. Here’s a breakdown of what to bring, how to maintain professionalism, and tips for receiving feedback.
What to Bring for Clinical Rotations
Essentials for Every Rotation
White coat: usually required. Think about keeping a spare in your car in case you forget it.
Pens and notebook: take quick notes during rounds or patient encounters.
Penlight and stethoscope: consider other doctoring instruments as needed for each rotation.
Clipboard: need something to write on. Bonus if it has some cheat sheets for normal lab values or how to read an EKG.
Optional
Laptop or tablet: helpful for looking things up if you don't want to use your phone
H&P books: handy for reference and refining your skills.
Bring your whole doctor bag on the first day to see what is provided and what you are expected to use (think otoscope, ophthalmoscope, tuning forks, etc.)
Professionalism in Clinical Rotations
Interacting with Preceptors
Ask questions, don’t correct: Instead of directly correcting a preceptor, frame your input as a question to enhance understanding. It’s okay to put the preceptor on the defensive because they could look something up if they are unsure and then thank you for pointing something out.
Accept corrections gracefully: Let the attending correct you. Thank preceptors for their guidance and view corrections as learning opportunities.
Collaborating with Other Students
Share opportunities: If you’ve answered multiple questions, pause to allow others a chance. It reflects self-awareness and teamwork.
Say no to gunner behavior: Making someone else look worse may seem like it will make you look better in comparison, but this is not true. I can now also say this as a resident who has worked with students. The student who answers every question and makes someone else look bad appears to be obnoxious.
Best Practices
Don’t complain: Stay positive around attendings and preceptors. Vent frustrations in appropriate settings, like with other medical students (maybe residents).
Be early: Arriving at least 15 minutes early demonstrates professionalism and sets a good precedent. On-time is late. Early is on time. Start good habits right away.
Know names: Introduce yourself to the team and remember names to build stronger relationships. I have to remind myself of this one. Don't think you'll only be in one place for a few weeks and that it isn't worth the effort. It makes a huge difference.
Use formal titles: Always address preceptors and residents as "Dr." unless they explicitly tell you otherwise, regardless of how they introduce themselves.
Tips for Receiving Feedback
Seeking Feedback Proactively
Ask early and often: Don’t wait for preceptors to initiate feedback. They may forget or think you don't want it. Request it early in the rotation and regularly. It makes you look proactive and that you care by asking.
Be specific: Ask for targeted feedback on your performance to identify areas for improvement.
Handling Feedback Gracefully
Avoid defensiveness: Accept feedback without argument, even if you disagree. Acknowledge it and show your intent to improve.
Request regular check-ins: Aim for overall feedback at least weekly or midway through a rotation to track your progress. More regular feedback means that you will know what to work on to improve by the end of the rotation and therefore get better evaluations. It’s a win-win. Otherwise, you may think you’re doing well, but the attending isn’t telling you what they think. You can't read their mind, so you need to ask.
Broaden Your Thinking: Assessment and Plans
As a third-year medical student, forming an assessment and plan can feel overwhelming. It is much broader than the accustomed multiple-choice questions or Anki cards. It helps to think out loud when discussing with an attending and share your thought process so they can guide or correct you as needed.
Keeping these tips in mind to navigate your rotations with confidence, professionalism, and a commitment to growth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Clinical Rotations
1. What should I bring on my first day of clinical rotations?
Bring your white coat, pens, notebook, stethoscope, penlight, clipboard, and H&P books. Take more than you think you need to determine what tools (e.g., otoscope, ophthalmoscope) the facility provides and what you’ll need to carry.
2. How should I handle feedback from my preceptors?
Be proactive by asking for feedback early and regularly during the rotation. Accept feedback graciously, even if critical, and avoid becoming defensive. Use it as an opportunity to grow and improve. Regular check-ins, such as weekly or at the rotation's midpoint, help ensure you’re on the right track.
3. How early should I arrive for rotations?
Aim to arrive at least 15 minutes early for all scheduled activities. This habit shows punctuality, reliability, and respect for your team. Being early also allows you to prepare for the day and make a positive impression.