My Experience at COPE Health Scholars: A Window Into Patient Care and Medicine

Introduction

Participating in the COPE Health Scholars program was both a rewarding and valuable experience that helped to develop my understanding of hospital operations and patient care. As someone aspiring to become a physician, the clinical exposure I gained allowed me to both observe healthcare professionals up close as well as gain practical experience within a hospital environment.

Choosing the 4th Floor Telemetry Unit 

One of the unique aspects of COPE is that you have the opportunity to choose the unit where you would like to work. I chose the 4th floor telemetry unit, which specializes in monitoring patients’ heart rhythms and vital signs. This dynamic environment was ideal for observing acute care and also connecting and learning from skilled healthcare staff.

Daily Tasks and Responsibilities

During my shifts, I performed a variety of tasks typical of nurse assistants and hospital support staff, including:

• Helping patients with mobility and comfort

• Delivering supplies and equipment to different floors

• Assisting staff with patient transport

• Supporting nurses with non-clinical duties

• Observing patient monitoring and telemetry equipment

• Answering to patient room call lights

• These hands-on experiences gave me the opportunity to understand the critical role played by support staff in patient care and hospital workflow.

  
  

Observing Doctors and Healthcare Teams

Observing firsthand doctors and medical teams in action, often described as being “in their natural habitat”, was undoubtedly one of the most invaluable parts of this internship. During my time in COPE I observed physicians making rounds, as well as reviewing patient charts, and coordinating care with nurses and specialists. This gave me an invaluable insight into the complexities of clinical decision-making and the importance of teamwork in medicine. It also helped me to come out of my shell more and to learn how to communicate with patients and staff in a more efficient manner.

Reflection: Why COPE Health Scholars Matters for Future Physicians

During a late evening shift on this program it was actually an encounter with a kind patient that helped to transform my perception. A middle-aged woman had asked me to find her a pillow for support, which at first would appear a simple request and task to carry out, however other nurses had tried looking in a completely full hospital to no avail. After finally finding a pillow, the kind lady confided in me that she had been suffering from health issues and anxiety so my efforts and kind actions really meant a lot to her. She even said to me that “One day you will definitely do something big as a Doctor, you will for sure own this building!”. That is when I realized the value of this program. To rise and progress while always helping others.

This internship has without a doubt consolidated my passion for medicine by providing a realistic glimpse into hospital life. It has highlighted the significance of empathy, communication, and collaboration. I highly recommend COPE Health Scholars to anyone who is interested in pursuing a career in healthcare; it offers a unique chance to learn and grow in a professional setting.

Conclusion

Through COPE, I acquired not only practical skills but also a broader perspective on the healthcare system itself. This enriching experience reaffirmed my commitment to pursuing medicine and it also inspired me to continue developing myself to become a compassionate and knowledgeable future physician.

Now, I look to translate the experiences at COPE and together with my passion project be able to provide universal and accessible health knowledge