St. Gianna Health Academy

By Kim Pham

Orientation Week

On orientation week we took a tour of both hospitals. (SJC & SFC) We had a lecture from Ruth Hommertzheim about OR procedures. Officer Greg Dick came to discuss Security rules. Misty Marley came to talk about volunteer opportunities. We had to take TB shots before we could go on rotation. On the last day of orientation week Susan Orsbon introduced us to our Medical Terminology course at NU.

Thank You Letters

For each rotation the students write either a professional thank you letter or made a handmade thank you letter.

Thank you letters showed our appreciation for the units and our mentors that help educate about that rotation.

Professional Letter 1ATTN: 8SW September 29, 2011 St. Francis Campus929 N St. FrancisWichita, KS 67214  Dear Ashley Wilsen,  

My name is Kim and I’m from the St. Gianna Health Academy, I shadowed you on September 27! Thank you so much for showing me around 8SW unit, and learned a lot. Thanks for taking time out of your day and teaching me some things about 8SW.

I thought it was a very clean unit, and it was extremely organized! I admire all you do on this unit; you guys have to take care of so many patients. That would take a lot of patience, thanks so much for that! Thanks once again, for welcoming me to this unit! I learned a lot, and really would consider working in this unit. Have a great year!

                                                                                      Sincerely

                                                                                                                                                                                              Kim Pham ‘12

Professional Letter 2ATTN: NICU

November 7, 20113600 East Harry StreetWichita, KS 67218-3713 Dear Carolyn Anderson,            

            My name is Kim and I’m from the St. Gianna Health Academy, I shadowed you on November 2! Thank you so much for allowing me to stop by, and to get a chance to see what the NICU is all about! I really enjoyed this unit and hope to learn more about it! I thought this unit was very clean and organized! I really do like this unit! It’s a lot calmer then most units I’ve been too. I had a real fun time and you were so funny! Thanks again for taking the time to show me what your job is at the NICU.   Thank you for welcoming me to this unit! I hope you have a bless year! Thanks again for your time!

   

Sincerely,  

Kim Pham’12

Professional Letter 3ATTN: NICU

November 7, 20113600 East Harry StreetWichita, KS 67218-3713 Dear Danielle Martin,

                        My name is Kim and I’m from the St. Gianna Health Academy, I shadowed you on November 3! Thank you so much for allowing me to stop by, and to get a chance to see what the NICU is all about! I really enjoyed this unit and hope to learn more about it!             I thought this unit was very clean and organized! I really do like this unit! It’s a lot calmer then most units I’ve been too. I had a real fun time and thank you so much for being so informative about this unit! That really helps me get a better understanding of the unit! Thanks again for taking the time to show me what your job is at the NICU.

Sincerely,

Kim Pham ’12

Professional Letter 4ATTN:  Cardiac Unit    November 17, 2011St. Francis Campus929 N St. FrancisWichita, KS 67214  

 Dear Erika Van Zye,             My name is Kim and I shadowed you on November 16, 2011, thank you so much for letting me

shadow you. This unit was a very calm unit.  I learned a lot about how the Cardiac Unit works and I really admire all your hard work. You are very efficient in your work!

            I really admire how much patience you had with so many patients. The nurses down at the Cardiac unit have so much to handle especially when patients can be very demanding. This unit was very busy so I can understand how stressful days can be.

            Thanks so much again for letting me shadow you on my twelfth rotation at the Cardiac unit. I really appreciate how St. Francis allows students to come learn more about health profession. Health academy has given me a great opportunity to learn so much about nursing! God Bless You!

  

                                                                                                 Sincerely,  

 Kim Pham ‘12

Professional Letter 5

ATTN: Radiology  Date: September 8, 2011  St. Francis Campus929 N St. Francis Wichita KS, 67214 Dear Cristi Edain and Sonia Vaughn,  

My name is Kim Pham and I’m a student from the St. Gianna Health Academy. I was here on my second week rotation at Diagnostics Radiology. Thank you so much for letting me drop by this week and getting to learn so much about your unit.

I found Radiology very interesting, and definitely an area I will look into. Hopefully I can visit the unit sometime soon. I really enjoyed getting to move around freely and observing all the different procedures perform this week. Thank you also for making sure I had more to learn each day of rotation.

I really admire the patience your staff has in every situation; they took it calmly and very nicely. My rotation went really comfortable just because of that! Thank you!

                                                                                                                                                  Sincerely,                                                                                                            

›                                                                                                             Kim Pham ’12

Handmade Letter 1

Handmade Letter 2

Handmade Letter 3

Handmade Letter 4

Handmade Letter 5

Blog 1: Cath Lab.

My first rotation was at the Cath Lab. At St. Joseph Hospital. It was a very interesting unit, I got to see more than I expected. I was really nervous at first to start rotation, but after a while I got a hang of it. A regular procedure would take about hour or more, but surprisingly the doctors went through each patient quickly. The types of procedures I saw were, heart cath, pacemaker, TEE, or a "fix". The nurse would set up the room, with the proper equipment required for each procedure. The tool I found most interesting was the "balloon", which is exactly what it is. The balloon is placed in an artery and then air is placed in to expand the artery to stop blood clots. Unlike other procedures, the pacemaker was placed through a vein. I found the TEE, was the most interesting procedure. Instead of using the cat scan, they used a ultra sound to see the patients arteries. This rotation was a lot of fun and educational, the Cath lab. is definitly worth a rotation!

Blog 2: Radiology

My second week rotation was at Radiology. "A radiologist is a physician who has specialized training in obtaining and interpreting medical images, which makes him or her an imaging expert. These images are obtained by using x-rays (radiographs, CT, fluoroscopy), or radioactive substances (nuclear medicine), others by means of sound waves (ultrasound) or the body's natural magnetism (MRI)." This unit felt slow at first, but they usually can have 100 patients each day. I thought radiology was a very interesting unit, with lots of areas to get into. For instance you could work as a radiology technician or in CT labs, working for nuclear medicine. I really didn't get a chance to ask so many questions, since everyone was very busy when a procedure was being done. I did learn a lot, of what the diagnostics team does for radiology, you could see older patients to younger patients. I really respected how the technicians, where very patient with every situation.

Blog 3: MICU/CICU

This week rotation was at MICU/CICU, this unit focus on patients in intensive care unit. I got to follow around two nurse, as they took care about two patients each. Depending on the day, there could be about 15 patients or just even six patients. The nurses in this unit were mostly RNs, who monitor patients heart rates and kept track off insulin. I notice it would take a lot of patience to work with such high maintenance patients here in this unit. I learned a lot, of routines and codes needed for this unit. Medicine distribution is important to keep track off, just incase something happens such as someone pocketing medicine. Its important to keep certain medicine refrigerated, or to makes sure patients are on the correct diet. I found this unit very interesting, and makes me want to look more into being and RN.

Blog 4:OR

I really enjoyed this unit I thought it was definitely more hands on then the other rotations I've been on. I thought it was really exciting to see the procedures I got to see, which where removing the colon for colon cancer. Unfortunately on both days I got to see the same procedure, but I also got to see a second procedure involving a Cather and balloon. I thought the first day was very interesting because of all the tools used in a procedure, the doctors are very skilled. The technology used for procedures are extremely advance and very impressive! I was surprise how each tool worked, it was simply but very effective.

Blog 5: NCCU

My 14th rotation at NCCU was a very awesome unit. This unit was tidy and organized. I had a wonderful nurse, who was very informative. She explain all the nursing benefits that came with her job. The NCCU takes care of patients with strokes, Brain Hemorrhage, etc. The nurses take care of two patients or more. The patient that I saw on my first rotation was a very sad case, since he was only 54. Even though he was 54, its still a young age. It just shows you how important it is, for people to take care of their physical health. Because something like this will catch up with you.

Mentor Form

Mentor forms where a way for the mentor to evaluate how the student perform on their rotations.

Mentor Form 1

Mentor Form 2

Mentor Form 3

Mentor Form 4

Mentor Form 5

Lecture 1:Forensic Biologist & DNA Analyst

Shelly Steadman is a forensic biologist and DNA analyst. Shelly Steadman has worked in much high profile casework such as the BTK case here in Wichita. She works in an area called a crime lab. A forensic DNA analysis works separate from law enforcement. Analyst prefer to work separated from law enforcement because their results won’t be tamper with. The results will not be effected by if the officer believes the suspect is guilty or if the case will allow the officer a promotion. A forensic biologist and DNA analyst searches for the unknown. They search for DNA that may be found in the most discrete areas. The summary of a forensic biology analysis is the career is based on screening evidence to solve the case. A student must have a bachelor in biology, molecular biology, or biochemistry to apply themselves to become a forensic biologist.

Lecture 2: Jeanne Cleary ER

Registered nurse Jeanne Clearly, describe working in the ER as “solving a puzzle really quick.” Jeanne Clearly worked in the ER for several years and has witness many surprising cases. Her patients can range from gunshot victim to dental pain. It’s important to form a relationship with her patients really quickly. So she can move forward with education that will help the patient. Forming a trusting relationship is difficult, because anything could offend the patient. She says it’s important not to be judgmental.

Lecture 3: Dr. Greg Reicheniberger - Veterinarian

Dr. Greg Reicheniberger, a veterinarian, came to speak of his occupation as a vet. His profession is at the West Wichita Pet Clinic. He graduated from Newman University in 1987 with a B.S. in chemistry and a B.A. in Biology. He also graduated from KSTATE, College of Veterinary Medicine. Students are also required to take a VCAT or MCAT for admissions. Veterinary school is a 4 year program but it may also take up to 3 – 4 years of residency.

Dr. Reicheniberger has worked with small and large animals. His job consists of physical examinations, surgery, and advisory in pet’s diet. Dr. Reicheniberger explains how during this time there are too many graduating vets. He advises us, if we are truly dedicated and passionate about this occupation, we should strive and go into this field. His clinic for pets consists of an examination room, grooming room, boarding area, and dental.

Lecture 4: Dr. Summerhouse

Our next speaker Dr. Summerhouse is a retired D.O. He practices in family medicine, but work in the hospital assisting surgery. He also delivered a several babies a year, during his practice. Dr. Summerhouse gave us a great grasp on what getting into the medical field could offer. What also the medical field could offer. I really appreciated that. He also discussed what is needed to keep your license after your schooling and how a retired doctor could get back into the game. Dr. Summerhouse also explained how when you’re retired you can aid family and friends. With a career in family medicine you could work with patients of all ages. Family doctors are needed in every growing community. Where family members may need check up to help prevent sickness or diseases. With this career you’ll really get to know your patients, but it becomes a long term relationship. A family doctor becomes an extension of the family. You are the family’s primary provider.

Lecture 5: Dental Hygienists

Our speaker, Beth, came to talk to us about a career as a dental hygienist, “Dental hygienists remove soft and hard deposits from teeth, teach patients how to practice good oral hygiene, and provide other preventive dental care. They examine patients' teeth and gums, recording the presence of diseases or abnormalities.” She was a really good speaker, and I never thought about a career in dental. Beth made it sound very interesting. A career as dental hygienist is a high ranking growing occupation. You can work in private offices with flexible hours. This occupation is actually competitive in some areas. Dental hygienist can use varied of tools to complete task, such as polishing teeth. They use x-ray machines to take dental pictures. Dental hygienist really take on a lot of rolls, they also help patients maintain good oral health. They can diagnosis laboratory diagnostic test for the dentist to interpret. The education that it takes to become a dental hygienist is high school diploma, four years of college, and an entrance test scores. There are plenty of programs that would prepare you to become a dental hygienist. Dental hygienists must be licensed by the State in which they practice.

Cover Letter

Kim Pham948 White Tail CirWichita, KS, 67206316-299-8558kpham1408@gmail.comOctober 3, 2011 Christa ThackerHuman ResourcesVia Christi Hospital: St. FrancisSt. Francis Campus929 N St. FrancisWichita, KS 67206

Cover Letter Cont.

Dear Christa Thacker: 

After experiencing the program St. Gianna Health Academy has offer, I learned so much! This program has given me a better understanding of all the possibilities I could have working at hospital. I hope to work alongside pharmacist.

I’ve walked into this program considering many careers in the medical field. I hope after Health Academy as well, working at the hospital will give me more guidance in narrowing down a career choice. This senior year has been a struggling year; where I can proudly say it help mold my character. Volunteering at the hospital has given me more patients and it has really been a joy getting to help around with patients!

  I hope to get a chance to work at the hospital to expand my work experience, which is very limited of right now. I spent most of my time on school work, but hope to work part time gaining more experience. I love working and helping others. Using my creative side to finish the task! 

I’m open to all the wonderful possibilities Via Christi could offer, and I hope to be given the chance to work here at St. Francis.

    

Sincerely,    

Kim Pham

Resume

Reference Page

Career List: Pharmacist

Distribute prescription drugs to individuals, advise their patients, physicians, and other health practitioners on dosages, interactions, and side effects of medication.

Something a pharmacist does very little of the actual mixing of ingredients to form medications.

The qualification and education required to become a pharmacist varies as well. In the United States, future pharmacist must earn a Pharm.D. degree from an accredited college or a school of pharmacy. Program for Pharm. D. requires an applicant must have completed 2 years of specific professional study.

Career List: Pharmacy Tech

Pharmacy techs also work in clean, organized, well-lighted, and well-ventilated areas. It is likely for technicians to lift heavy boxes or use stepladders. To work as a pharmacy technician, applicants should have some kind of formal training, even if there is no standard training. A high school diploma may increase an applicant’s chances of employment. Programs for a pharmacy technician are offer in various places such as, community colleges, vocational schools, hospitals, and the military. Not only do these programs last up to 6 months to 2 years, it covers a variety of subjects such as medical and pharmaceutical terminology. During these programs you could be train as interns, with hands on experience. “Advancement opportunities generally are limited, but in large pharmacies and health systems pharmacy technicians and aides with significant training or experience can be promoted to supervisory positions.” Another advancement opportunity is becoming a pharmacist with formal training.

Career List: Forensic Nurse

a Forensic Nurse who’s job combines nursing with the law enforcement arena.

“It involves the investigation and treatment of victims of sexual assault, elder, child and spousal abuse, unexplained or accidental death, trauma and assault as well as perpetrators of these and any criminal activity.”

A good characteristic needed to be a good forensic nurse is to combine their nursing knowledge with the investigative and counseling skills.

Certification courses generally required for SANE, forensic pediatric/geriatric nurse. Forensic psychiatric nurse requires MS with counseling certification.” I think forensic nurses have an important job in helping others.

Career List: Nurse Administrator

A nurse administrator is an executive position establishes department directions and strategies. Administrators set and interpret policy and develop structures for operating units and assume a broad organizational perspective and represent their organization to their constituents. It’s important for the administrator to be strong in nursing management, financing, accounting, and computers. Educations can vary from RN with BSN, or MSN (preferred), and or a doctorate. Nurse administrators can be employed in individual institutions or multi institution.

Career List: Nurse Anesthetist

Involves providing care to patients before, during, and after surgery or delivery. An important responsibility is constantly monitoring every function of the patient’s body while the patient is anesthetized. These nurses can be found in private and public facilities, such as ORs, labor and delivery, and pain clinics. Some skills needed to be a nurse anesthetist, are psychomotor skill, interviewing and teaching, stress management, and flexibility and commitment. The education required to be a nurse anesthetist is to be an RN with MSN. There are also varies areas where you can be employed: university medical centers, military, private practices and hospitals.

Final Reflection

I really am appreciative of the St. Gianna Health Academy program. This program has honestly given me a better idea of careers in health and science. I definitely have a better understanding of my career choices. I really enjoyed going on rotations and getting a hands on experience of the different units. The experience was not always the best, but it did make it a better learning experience. I also thought our lectures in Dr. Singh’s class was very informative. It was really helpful to have professionals come and educate on their careers. St. Gianna Health Academy has been a challenging course, but over all it has been worth it.