As promised, here is a list of tools/resources that I used most during my family medicine rotation! They will be linked here and on my link page.
- Littmann Cardiology IV Stethoscope– This is the one piece of medical equipment the rotation asked me to bring with me. They did have stethoscopes in the rooms at the clinic I could use, but mine was SO much better! A good stethoscope is really important and a great investment; you’ll use it for every patient and and you’ll be so grateful when you don’t have to struggle to hear things.
- Brooks Glycerin 20- I realized my very first day on the job that I was going to need better shoes; my back was KILLING me after standing the whole day. Thankfully I started sitting more throughout the day when I got to see patients on my own instead of shadowing my preceptor, but I have definitely fallen in love with these shoes! They were definitely an investment, but they are so extremely comfy. Completely recommend!
- H&P Notebook- This little notebook was a lifesaver! I could take notes while shadowing my preceptor and write out a full plan after a particularly interesting or complicated visit. It has an ROS and PE section, so it was also handy to peek out when I wasn’t sure what other questions to ask or what exam maneuvers to perform. Thanks to my UTMB mentor for gifting me these!
- Smarty PANCE- This has been my main study tool so far for clinical year! They have an EOR study course for each type of rotation, The sections are short enough to keep me interested but don’t exclude any important details. This is the only thing I’ve been using to study so far, but I’m sure that will change as EORs get closer.