Clinical Correlations was a very interactive and interesting experience. This class allowed us to apply all the knowledge we gained in our didactic classes and apply them to real world scenarios. Especially with virtual learning, this class also allowed us to come together in a platform that encouraged teamwork and collaboration.  

In the past two semesters of this class, we were able to explore various patient cases and how to work through them. We also were able to interact with professors in a more small group setting that encouraged more participation and discussion. When we started this class in the summer, it was very new and intimidating to me. I felt like I did not have enough knowledge to properly answer all the questions being discussed. But I soon came to realize that we didn’t need to have exact facts memorized in order to excel in this class, rather need to have a proper understanding of certain concepts that allowed for open conversation and sharing or knowledge. I realized I knew more then I thought, and ended up learning a lot not only from the professors but also my peers. I believe that since starting this class my ability to analyze the patient and assess what to prioritize in their management has become a lot more organized then before. Rather then just using the same template for each patient, I learned the important of assess each patient as an individual and seeing what needs to be asked or done in what proper order. I also learned the importance of formulating a thorough past medical history, and how certain questions in the social history can change out entire thinking. As we progressed in this class I learned the value of making a good differential list, and working to cross things off it. As a group we were able to figure out what labs and tests were needed in this patient, and this skilled continued to improve as we progressed in this class. As for treatment, management and plan, I feel like this is where I saw the most growth. I learned the importance of specific IV solutions, and and where to place the patient (tele, admit, etc). Through discussion, I learned what plan and medications would be best for this patient. And finally I believe that this class taught me the importance of communicating with patients. Often times our Professors would play the part of the patient, and it was our job to make them comfortable, and make sure they understood the information presented to them, which would not always be easy.  

I have seen a lot of progress in myself through this class in not only my assessment of a patient, but also my general knowledge of the subjects. However, as with anything, there is still a lot I need to work on. I need to continue to learn how to create a broad differential list. I often times get too focused on what I think is going on, that I don’t expand my search, which can lead to misdiagnosis and mistreatment. I need to also research and study proper management techniques after we hand off the patient. This brings me to something else that I believe I will continue to improve as I enter clinicals, how to present a patient to the appropriate person. This includes the differences in presenting when presenting to a attending that’s following the case, or someone you are handing off to.  

I believe this class gave us a fantastic kickstart in how to interact with and assess patient cases, and I think that it will greatly help as we enter Clinical year.