3 Tips for Managing Information Overload During Clinical Rotation
Here are a few things you can do to help organize and process ALL the information presented to you during your clinical rotation.
No. 1 - Take A LOT of Notes
Expect to take A LOT of notes during your rotations, especially when you’re shadowing your preceptor. Make a note of EVERYTHING from logging into the electronic medical records (EMR) to signing your completed chart. AND include as much detail as needed. The more detail you include in your notes will help you later on when it’s time to do things on your own.
Don’t be surprised if you completely forget how to perform a new task that seemed fairly simple when you preceptor was doing it, but as soon as you sit down to complete the task on your own, your mind goes blank.
Jot down notes on:
how to sign-in to the facilities electronic medical records (EMR)
your schedule including name of preceptors you’ll be working with and which floors/units you’ll be assigned to
patient rounds you’ll be expected to attend and how to prepare for them
how to print your patient list
how to order enteral and parenteral nutrition as well as supplements and diet orders
how to introduce yourself when you enter a patients room
if there’s specific or standard information that’s expected to be include into your chart note (this may vary based on the preceptor and facility)
specifics about how to assess and provide nutrition intervention for medical conditions you may be unfamiliar with or need a refresher
And don’t forget to make note of when everyone typically takes a lunch break. Lunch is a great time to get to know your preceptors and the other dietitians.
No. 2 - Ask Questions
It is important to ask questions or seek advice from your preceptor if you’re faced with a situation or taske you’re not sure how to handle. If you’ve already done your diligence by checking your notes and researched the issue, ask AWAY. Once you’re able to resolve the situation or task at hand, make notes for future reference.
There may also be a time where you notice, or your preceptor notices, that you seem to be asking the same types of questions over and over. If that’s the case, you may want to sit down with your preceptor again on how to handle these situations to help identify where you may be getting stuck or need additional help. Then adjust your notes accordingly.
You’re not expected to get everything right the first time. The dietetic internship is the perfect place to ask questions and learn from your mistakes while you start building your practical experience as an aspiring dietitian.
No. 3 - Give Yourself Permission to Take a Mental Break
Sometimes the best thing you can do for yourself when you’re feeling overwhelmed, or stressed, is to take a step back and give your brain a rest, even if it’s for a couple minutes.
go for a short walk
get a snack
work on something else
stand up and stretch
ask for a second opinion
After you’ve given yourself time to mentally “reset”, go back to the task or situation at hand and try again.
