Work Experience Student Review

- observing patient care and treatment - shadowing a variety of different departments involved in physiotherapy, such as physiotherapy, neuroscience, and haematology - talking to patients about their experience and what they look for in a doctor - talking to health care professionals and getting an insight into their daily routine - learning how to document patient information and maintain confidentiality

- how to talk to a variety of people from different backgrounds - how to document patient information and interactions legally - the complaints procedure for patients and the role of the GMC in a hospital - the technical aspects of patient treatment and how a treatment plan is decided - the procedure for issuing a DNR (do not resuscitate)

i enjoyed my work experience very much as there was a lot of things to do, and a variety of departments to shadow. the professionals are very passionate about their jobs and always willing to talk to students and show them around the ward, and explain the procedure of how a patients care plan is decided.

although there was a variety of things to do, there was not a clear structure to the placement, and plans for the day for students changed very frequently. some departments were unaware of the fact that students were to be present on certain days, and did not have anything planned.

I learned a lot about what it takes to work in a hospital, and the different medical ethics that go into working as a member of the healthcare system as well as the rights of a patient and how important than they are. I also learned about the structure of the NHS and how different departments interact to deal with each patient case.

very useful, as i have decided to pursue medicine at university. the career is very rewarding, and the placement highlighted the daily routine of a doctor, the responsibilities they have to take and the changes they make to patient lives alongside how hard the job can be. It showed me the challenge working in healthcare provides and the rewards that can be reaped.

no i was not paid or reimbursed, although this is to be expected as work experience placements with the NHS are difficult to get, and very competitive to be part of. meals, travel and the duration of the placement are not paid for or reimbursed, although the experience is worth it.

yes, i was able to talk to a variety of workers from a variety of different departments, and was given the chance to network and arrange further work experience, which I have successfully arranged for April in cardiology department. most people are willing to talk to students and answer any questions we may have.

Yes

the placement was very insightful and helped me definitely secure medicine as my future career path. discussions with doctors, nurses and junior doctors has showed me what a day in the job is like, and it is something I would love to be part of. the placement showed me the inner workings of many departments, and how they all link together.

- give a least 4 weeks notice, and leave some time to get a health check and DBS check done before starting your placement - some departments do not accept students under 18 - be confident! don't be scared to talk to doctors - they've invited you to be there - email a range of consultants, if you don't get a reply, don't take it to heart and try again!