Approaching your first clinical year
BMJ 2008; 336 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/sbmj.0803112 (Published 01 March 2008) Cite this as: BMJ 2008;336:0803112
- Chung Thong Lim, fourth year medical student1,
- Amanda Yap, fourth year medical student2,
- Chung Sim Lim, clinical research fellow2
- 1Barts and the London, Queen Mary, University of London
- 2Barts and the London, Queen Mary, University of London
- 3Section of Vascular Surgery, Charing Cross Hospital, London W6 8RF
In the first clinical year, students are excited that they are at last “proper” medical students, finally learning the skills of being a doctor in hospitals, rather than in lecture theatres. Although medical students who take integrated curriculums have had exposure to the hospital environment in the preclinical years, the clinical years have always been perceived as challenging and different. The uncertainties surrounding the hospital and the sudden change of learning environment can be daunting.
Preparing for hospital
Preclinical subjects, including pathology, anatomy, and basic clinical skills, may come in handy. After all, your preclinical studies are meant to prepare you for the clinical years. Most medical schools have induction programmes for the clinical years, which usually include lectures, clinical demonstrations, practical skills sessions, and tutorials. Besides equipping you with essential medical knowledge and skills, induction programmes introduce you to the hospital's etiquette, environment, and staff. Take this opportunity to improve your practical skills, such as clinical examinations and venepunctures, and communication skills, by practising on manikins, actors, or friends.
Know the placement
Getting to know the firm of your attachment in advance helps you to prepare. Try to speak to your seniors and friends who have worked with the team or at the hospital before to find out the routines of that firm. Early familiarity with the hospital can make arranging accommodation and travel easier, especially if you are placed at a distant hospital. Find out the specialty and interest of your team so that you can read up on that subject beforehand. For example, if you are attached to a cardiology firm, it makes sense …
Log in
Log in using your username and password
Log in through your institution
Subscribe from £184 *
Subscribe and get access to all BMJ articles, and much more.
* For online subscription
Access this article for 1 day for:
£50 / $60/ €56 (excludes VAT)
You can download a PDF version for your personal record.