Marilin Rodriguez
Responsibilities
My responsibilities included: Using ScottCare software to chart patient information Aiding in placement of EKG's on patients Preparing and sanitizing EKG monitors before each session Taking blood pressures before, during and after exercise Small office tasks like making intake and exit packets
Accomplishments
My greatest accomplishments during this internship was being able to create amazing bonds with our patients. I went from being nervous and quiet to having insightful conversations with rehab patients. I felt like I really made a difference in many patients life with the exercise prescriptions and the education I provided for them.
Learning experience
The greatest lesson I learned from my experience is to be patient with every person I meet. Working in the clinic, we had many individuals come in with different capabilities. While a younger man can go 3 mph on the treadmill after a cardiac procedure, an older individual who just had stents put in might not be able to walk at all. Having the patience to work with the individual in order to get them doing beneficial aerobic exercise is the best lesson I got out of this experience.
What advice would you give?
If I could give other students advice, it would be to know exactly what it is you want to do in the future. Also, find out what other education is beneficial to have with your future career. For example, it is easier to find a job in cardiac rehab if you have a BSN. Make sure to do your research and ask questions to people who are in your future profession!