Select Page

Student Clinic Observation

by Jul 15, 2022

Home » Naturopathic Medicine Student Blog » Student Clinic Observation

This trimester, I spend four hours each week at the Student Clinic observing naturopathic medicine interns interacting with real patients. Through observation, I have been able to witness and reflect on various things, such as the doctor-patient relationship, my personal strengths and weaknesses, and how the basic sciences connect to the clinical sciences. 

TAC Exam

I have observed a wide variety of patient interactions, spanning from new patient intakes, follow-up appointments, review of laboratory results, nutritional consulting, acupuncture, constitutional hydrotherapy, Russian steam cabinet, cold laser therapy, and physical exercises to increase the strength of specific muscles. In all of these interactions, I play an observer role. I have been developing my SOAP note writing skills with each patient interaction, and it has been great practice for me.

It is nice to finally start applying the information that I have learned during the past several years in a way that is clinically relevant to each patient’s case. Getting more exposure to clinical reasoning and treatment has been exciting. Playing the role of observer has greatly contributed to significant learning for me. The learning is not only in connecting the basic sciences with the clinical sciences, but I also notice that having great interpersonal skills are absolutely critical in effectively communicating and connecting with patients.

I have also enjoyed asking both interns and clinicians various types of questions concerning anything that I have questions about. I have learned a great deal in the several weeks that I have been observing. I look forward to more clinic observation learning experiences.

To learn more about Naturopathic Medicine at NUHS, click here 

Subscribe to Our Blog

Follow NUHS on Social Media

About the Author

Katie Kavicky-Mels

Katie Kavicky-Mels

My name is Katie Kavicky-Mels, and I am in my last year of the Naturopathic Medicine program at NUHS. I am a naturopathic intern at the student clinic in Lombard. I live in beautiful Door County, Wisconsin, but I currently live on campus. My roots are deep in nature, and I enjoy camping, hiking, foraging and campfires. I am passionate about addressing the root causes of health issues using nature as the foundation. I look forward to sharing my naturopathic journey with you. I like meeting new folks, so please reach out if you have any questions!

0 Comments

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Posts

On Fellowship

On Fellowship

Today I reflect on fellowship. My family and I will be moving in May. As we approach the transition, I am appreciative for community. Aside from my husband, my church family has been my most constant influence during our three-year chapter in Illinois.

read more
On Truth

On Truth

Recently I have been aware of the role of truth telling in patient care. The truth heals, but it is uncomfortable, which is why we go to great lengths to avoid it.

read more
On Knowing

On Knowing

The training of doctors is centered on learning how to meet patient needs. This looks different in each case. For some, emergency care is needed. For others, it is pain management or disease control. Still for others, it is guidance and encouragement to make lifestyle changes.

read more

Defining the future of integrated health care.