Clinical Experience
Gaining clinical hours can be a daunting task for many students. Here are some tips on becoming a clinical rockstar.
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We can break clinical experience into three broad categories
1
Shadowing
2
Clinical Work
3
Clinical Volunteering
Shadowing
Downloadable Posters
Clinical Work
It might seem difficult to get clinical hours as an undergrad, but there are a few entry-level positions that can give you a great experience treating patients.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Training Required: 8-16 week program; must pass a state certification exam.
Medical Assistant (MA)
Training Required: certification like CMA/RMA/phlebotomy is optional but beneficial
Pharmacy Technician (Pharm Tech)
Training Required: PTCE certification required in many states.
Radiology Technician (Rad Tech)
Training Required: Associate’s Degree or certificate program; ARRT certification required
Medical Scribe
Training Required: Varies; On-the-job training or short course (3-6 months); certification optional.
Phlebotomist
Training Required: 3-6 month training program; certification through NPA or ASCP recommended.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Training Required: 3-6 month training program; NREMT certification required.
EKG Technician
Training Required: 3 months to 1-year optional training; optional CET certification.
Patient Care Technician (PCT)
Training Required: 8-16 week CNA or EMT program; must pass a state certification exam for respective program.
Clinical Volunteering
UI Health Chicago - Chicago, IL
A wide array of departments need volunteers. Here are some examples: greeters and way finders, musicians, diagnostics & imaging services, cancer center, physical/occupational therapy, outpatient pediatrics
RUSH University Medical Center - Chicago, IL
RUSH's volunteers have a variety of roles including Greeters and escorts, Clerical support, Delivering flowers, mail, specimens and crafts, Patient relations including providing companionship, and Patient care areas and the emergency department.
JourneyCare Hospice - 4 Locations across Chicagoland
Volunteers give their time and compassion to patients and families dealing with end-of-life care needs as well as assisting with administrative office needs and bereavement support. They currently have 4 locations, 3 in suburban Chicago and 1 at Rush Medical Center