My emergency medicine rotation at Queens Hospital Center offered many new experiences, as well as some challenges. A very large majority of the patients that frequent the QHC ED are not English speaking. Although I have encountered non-English speaking patients before, there was an individual that was able to translate. This rotation was the first time that I had to use a translation service. Although my experience with the service was positive overall, I found that the language barrier still made it quite difficult to get a proper history. Over time I learned how to compensate for the language barrier in order to ensure that I have all the information I need to properly care for my patient. Throughout this rotation I was able to practice my skills in regard to wound care and suturing. This allowed me to increase my comfort level with procedures that I was previously nervous about. My most memorable patient was an IV drug user that had extensive ulcerations over his forearms. While caring for his wounds there was an easy flow of conversation. Prior to being discharged he thanked me profusely for taking care of him. It was clear to see that he wasn’t used to being treated with respect. That experience reinforced the importance of caring for patients with respect, despite the circumstances surrounding their injuries or choice of lifestyle. There was one skill that I learned at QHC that reflects less on patient care, and more on succeeding in the future workplace. Every shift I was placed with a different PA to work with. Some PAs where easier to work with than other. Through this experience I learned to build an amicable relationship with whoever I was placed with. This is a skill I’m going to continue to need as I continue through rotations and enter the workforce.

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