Physician Assistant
I Chose Salus
My name is Madison, and I am a second-year Physician Assistant (PA) Studies student on clinical rotations. Right now, I am in my surgery rotation, which is my second out of ten total rotations this year. I have loved being in the operating room (OR) and getting to experience general, colorectal, breast, vascular surgery—and more!
During this current rotation I wake up around 5:30 a.m. and start getting ready for my day. I get changed, get some snacks prepared, and head out for the hospital at 6:15 a.m. I arrive to the hospital around 7:00 a.m. and head inside.
Once I enter the hospital, I go grab my scrubs from the scrub machine and head into the locker room to get changed. I make sure I grab a hat and mask before heading to the OR. Once I get back to the OR, I head to a computer and start reviewing for the cases we have scheduled that day. I try to review anatomy and surgical technique prior to starting each case.
We usually begin our first case at 7:30 a.m. Each day we usually have two to four cases depending on how long the cases are, which range from one to six hours. Some days I get the opportunity to round with the surgery service as well and examine post-op patients to ensure they are healing well. We also prepare for any add-on cases that may occur after our scheduled cases, such as hernia repairs, appendectomies, or cholecystectomies.
Most days we end around 4:00 p.m., but depending on the day we may stay as late as 8:00 p.m. Each day is different and that is what I enjoy about the rotation. Once I make the trip home for the day I try to exercise, study, and most importantly get some sleep!
Learn More About the Salus Physician Assistant Studies Program
