This shadowing opportunity with Dr. Khan helped me acquire both inpatient and outpatient exposure in the month of August 2022. As an observer, I attended ward rounds in HCA Houston Northwest Hospital; outpatient clinics in Epic Heart and Vascular Center. I also got an opportunity to observe various procedures both in hospital and clinic including cardiac catheterizations, peripheral angiograms, various venous procedures including radiofrequency ablation, venaseal and varithena, arterial and venous dopplers, echocardiography and stress tests. We spent a good time in office in understanding ECGs and interpretation of stress tests.
The rotation itself not only improved my clinical knowledge but also helped me in effective communication with patients. I actively took part in case discussions and it helped me to improve my interpersonal skills as well. The positive feedback from Dr. Khan helped me work on my shortcomings and do better with each day.
Apart from that there was an incorporation of scholarly activities in the daily routine. I got an opportunity to present two of the topics from 2020 ACC/AHA Guidelines for the Management of Patients with Valvular Heart Disease including “Aortic Regurgitation and valvular heart disease and pregnancy” This rotation overall encouraged me to build confidence and refined the qualities to become a better professional. Dr. Khan was extremely appreciative throughout about my eagerness to learn and energetic demeanor. This experience is something I will definitely carry into my professional career as a valuable asset.
