This November, the Ross Medical Education Center campus in Port Huron, Michigan had the pleasure of hosting Rita House from Lake Huron Medical Center. Rita visited the Port Huron campus to speak to their morning Medical Assistant program students regarding the requirements of employment at her site. Rita’s presentation spoke specifically to professionalism expectations.
Rita discussed the importance of presentation. She reviewed the importance of a neat, clean appearance with scrubs that fit appropriately and do not drag on the floor. She also insisted that being on time was an important aspect of your overall presence. She reviewed the policy at her site which includes a verbal warning, a written warning, a two day suspension, and then is followed by a release from employment if the problem escalates to a fourth tardy. She asked the students to be proactive by anticipating and preparing for weather related issues. For example, she said, “if it snows the night before, get up early and shovel the drive.” It is the employee’s responsibility to be there for their shift.
Rita included many other professional aspects of an allied health position. She told the students to learn what they can while on externship, to not participate in gossip, and to always stay busy. She described each position she has had as a stepping stone to the next position. She encouraged the students to continue to educate themselves and improve their skill set, “if you truly love your job, it will not feel like work.” She also reminded them of how important their role is, because everyone in the office will count on them. Above all, they were instructed to always treat their patients with kindness and respect, even if they appear angry or upset. They may just not feel well, and it is a healthcare professional’s job to be understanding.
Jackie Pospishel, a current student in the Port Huron Medical Assistant program, asked what made Rita want to draw blood. Rita explained how she had been uncertain about her career path. She wanted to be either an Engineer or a Lab tech. She began working with lab techs at River District while still in school and loved it. Because of how much she loved it, she has remained in the profession all these years. Another student, Nicole Seese, asked what a typical day looks like in the lab. Nicole also stated she is fascinated with lab opportunities. Rita reviewed the process used at the hospital beginning at 5:30 am. Rita also took the time to discuss the scientific technology used in the lab.
Finally, Mary Jo Jobbitt, Medical Assistant Clinic Instructor, asked for advice to help the instructors better prepare their students for employment. Rita listed numerous items. She expressed the importance of using the proper colored tube top, good phlebotomy skills, needle gauges, and “learning why.” She feels it is good to ask questions and find out why things must be done a certain way so that the concept is fully understood. It was a great experience to hear from Rita and the students and faculty were all very appreciative.