The first week, it may be beneficial to have students present away from the patient so they are comfortable with presenting. Emphasize a 5 minute or less presentation that is thorough and follows a standard format. Provide feedback on their presentation skills after leaving the bedside. Ultimately, students should become comfortable presenting clinical information from memory in front of patients. Complete a detailed evaluation of each student at the conclusion of the six weeks.
Narrative comments are the most helpful to the grading committee.
Each student is assigned to a housestaff team on the inpatient floors and should become an integral member of that team. Participate in as many team activities as your other responsibilities allow. Whenever possible the housestaff should allow the student to be the first member of the team to do a full work-up. There will be times when this will not be possible if the patient is critically ill or unstable or if other pending demands on housestaff time make it important for them to see the patient early. These notes must be co-signed by their resident or intern.