Sage Advice for Students
I always enjoy speaking with respiratory students. It's actually one of my favorite things about being in the profession. Below is an email I received from "John, SRT" on some of his fears, thoughts, and questions.
I would like to encourage any students who read this blog to contact me. As I said, I enjoy helping people, and not just patients. Maybe John's inquiries will answer some questions of fellow students, but if not, ask me. My email is beejayss07@gmail.com.
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I am currently in my last semester to become an RT and was wondering if you can answer a few of my questions. First off, I wanted to say excellent blog and keep up the good work. I told most of my classmates about it and they all visit now.
I do my clinicals at a community medical center with some discouraging therapists who have nothing but bad things to say about docs and the profession. Any input?
Also, I am very nervous about taking the test. I currently have the Kettering exam book and have been studying for the past four months with it. What kind of info was on the exam when you took it? This is going to be the worst exam of my life, and like you, I will be jumping for joy when I pass it.
One more thing: I have only been in two codes before. Do you have any tips on how to not let your nerves get the best of you?
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My response:
Congrats on making it into your last semester. That is no easy task! Also, thank you for the kind words on the blog. Sometimes it's hard to share personal thoughts and feelings in the profession, but if the blog is helping students, it makes it all worth it.
As far as doctors go, it's a mixed bag. I've met some really great docs who will allow you to do your thing and consider your input as a therapist. (Some will even let you take care of the respiratory aspect yourself.) Then, there are some that are not that pleasant.
I've found that the younger docs are the ones to go to when you need something. They are more compassionate and open-minded to your opinion. Sometimes, the older docs, or "old dogs," are set in their ways. However, NEVER let a doctor make you feel discouraged. As long as you have the best interest of your patient in mind, you'll never go wrong. And many people don't believe it, but I've seen it a lot: RT's know more about the lungs than doctors do. So never feel out of line to give your expert opinion, even if you are a young therapist.
With the test, you are doing everything right. Just study the Kettering book. It's a great program and they really know how to prepare students to take that test. I know it's nerve-wracking, but that's the nature of it. There's nothing I can tell you that will take away that feeling. Just get a good night's rest and know that everything you need to know is already in your head. Take your time, don't rush -- you'll have no problem passing the exam.
Codes are a scary thing sometimes. The best thing to do is just breathe, and take it one step at a time. The more you do, the more comfortable you'll become. Just always look out for your patient's well-being. Also, maybe look into getting your ACLS certification; that will make you more comfortable in a code situation.
It's a really great profession, yet like everything, it is what you make of it. But I can tell you that it is incredibly rewarding to make a difference in someone's life, or to even save a life.
Take care, and good luck with everything.
--BJ