Clinical Quick Reference Monthly July/August 2023 – Program Preparation Guide
Clinical Quick Reference Guides – Back To School Prep
This review will cover basics to prepare prospective healthcare professionals for the year ahead.
What Is the Best Way to Prepare?
Beginning a medical or health program can be both exciting and nerve-racking. It's reasonable to feel anxious when starting out (or returning!) because becoming a healthcare professional can be a challenging journey at times. However, with solid preparation, you can fast-track your course or training while minimizing additional and sometimes unnecessary worry.
Planning ahead is key to success. Here are ten aspects of learning that students should be prepared for, both the good and the tough.
1. Organization is Key
Organize! Especially your time--- plan to set aside time for studying, but also to spend time with family, eating healthy, exercising and other work you may have.
2. Brush Up On Your Study Skills
Study skills a little rusty? No problem, check out our study and testing skills review here:
https://bethkirschrn.substack.com/p/clinical-quick-reference-monthly-f83
3. Think Of Medical Programs Like a Full-Time Job
Medical, Nursing, and Allied Health programs require a serious commitment. No further explanation needed!
4. Get Serious About Networking
Reach out to fellow classmates or coworkers; they can help you review, study, and prepare for the work ahead.
5. Build Your Support System
Building a strong support system can play a critical role in program and work success. Support systems include pets, friends, coworkers, family, schoolmates and others. Make time to stay connected to friends and family.
(Be sure to check out our CQRG Industry Leads tab. Subscribe to receive industry opportunities and employment leads sent directly to your inbox.)
6. Utilize All Program Resources Available
Plan on attending all classes, labs, and clinicals. Meet the tutors and success coaches. These are not only valuable resources; they may be the support system you lean on to prepare for tests, midterms, and finals. When you are having difficulty with a particular concept, schedule one-on-one time to meet and review topics.
7. Attend Exam Prep Programs If Offered
Several university programs include test prep. It's crucial to attend these while enrolled in your program. Not only can they benefit your academic performance and professionalism, but they can also help save time and money once you graduate.
8. Join Or Create Your Own Study or Prep
If you find yourself struggling, realize you are not alone. Reach out to others in your program to create your own small study or prep groups. Small study groups are a great way to support each other, curb stress, and retain the information you are reviewing.
9. Maintain A Healthy Balance
Developing the practice of finding balance will help you in both your personal and professional life. Many professionals pour their entire being into their careers. While you will be spending a great deal of time on your studies, it's crucial to be involved in activities outside of school or work. Success in your program is vital, but so is taking care of your physical and mental well-being.
10. Study A Little Every Day
Make a commitment to working on your studies for a little each day. Break the task up into multiple smaller chunks to fit it in. You'll experience less anxiety and learn more readily.
Prepare More
What is Bloom’s Taxonomy? Why is it important to new learners? What do I need to know?
Bloom’s Taxonomy In Healthcare Programs
Taxonomy of Educational Objectives: The Classification of Educational Goals, was published in 1956. It is an educational classic that incorporates concepts of learning to create a classification of cognitive skills. This system of classification came to be known as Bloom’s taxonomy, after Benjamin Bloom, who participated in its development.
The taxonomy consists of categories of cognitive skills (six), that range from low-order skills to higher-order skills, requiring a deeper understanding of a subject and a greater degree of processing. It is the learner’s ability to successfully analyze and apply core fundamentals that will help them secure a passing examination score. Remembering and understanding concepts is considered foundational knowledge within most standardized testing frameworks. At a minimum, in order to pass higher level exams (e.g. NCLEX, MCAT, NAPLEX, ect) a learner must have a mastery of topics at the level of analysis and application.
Modern educators are embracing active learning initiatives to enhance achievement.
Active learning involves activities that engage students in the learning process. While passive learning focuses on reading text, taking notes and listening to lectures; active learning seeks to involve the student as a direct participant.
Both styles can be effective. However, students who are actively engaged in their own learning process are more likely to recall and use the information they have studied.
Some simple, but effective ways to get started:
Discuss topics with a classmate after lecture or clinical
Make a mock quiz or practice questions
Engage in a case study
Role play health scenario
Attend lab simulation
Find out more about Bloom’s Taxonomy here:
https://bethkirschrn.substack.com/p/clinical-quick-reference-monthly-6e2
Basic Lab Values To Review Now
CBC
What Is a Complete Blood Count?
A CBC is a test that counts the cells that make up the blood; red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. CBC testing may be ordered as part of a routine checkup or to screen for certain conditions. Values may vary from institution, so be sure to familiarize yourself with the guidelines and protocols of your organization.
Red blood cells: 4.5 million to 5.9 million cells/mcL for men; 4.1 million to 5.1 million cells/mcL for women
White blood cells: 4,500 to 11,000 cells per microliter (cells/mcL)
Hemoglobin: 14 to 17.5 grams per deciliter (gm/dL) for men; 12.3 to 15.3 gm/dL for women
Hematocrit: 41.5% to 50.4% for men; 35.9% to 44.6% for women
Mean corpuscular volume: 80 to 96
Platelets: 150,000 to 450,000 platelets/mcL
Helpful video:
Disclaimer: The above study guide represents study materials, always seek and follow the advice of your medical provider for any acute or chronic medical issues or questions.