Reaction : 2nd Observation

During this second observation, I expected to see the students work with the athletes and not to be tested on which medical supplies and equipment that they knew. It was also shorter than a typical rotation that usually last four hours. I realized that it was important to know this information as each student completed his or her task. I was surprised that most of the students did not have difficulty in completing their tasks. The students are determined to become athletic trainers because this program is very competitive at this university, and many do not pass to higher levels. This second observation was more of an introduction like the first observation which included the basics of the program. For future observations, I will go to sporting events which will probably more intriguing so I can see more active clinical experiences by the students in the program.

2nd Observation

Wednesday afternoon after my Interpersonal Communications class, I went to the University Center to observe Kim and other students in the athletic training program. They were dressed in their proper uniform which consists of a NSU athletic training logo white t-shirt,khaki or blue pants, and sneakers. I followed them to the training facility inside the University Center.Their rotation was quit different on this day because instead of attending to injured athletes, the assignment was to name and identify medical supplies. Kim later told me that this task was important because when working with the athletes one must know which appropriate medical supplies or equipment to use for these individuals.I thought this task was very necessary as well because I know that because having an inexperienced trainer could result in malpractice. After each student successfully completed their task they had permission to leave. Although this rotation was different, it was a great introduction to see what is to come in future clinical experiences.

First Observation: Introduction to Athletic Training

Yesterday afternoon, I spoke with Kim Urmaza, a first year freshman, who is currently in the Athletic Training Education Program (ATEP). I had lunch with her so she can fully explain the program to me. She is in the Dual Program here at the university in which after seven years she will receive a doctoral degree in Physical Therapy.
I first asked Kim, “What is Athletic Training?” She answered, “Athletic Training is an allied health profession in which athletic trainers prevent and rehabilitate injured athletes.” In the beginning of fall 2009, Kim started this program by attending required Athletic Training classes and rotations. The classes prepare her for the clinical rotations, in which she attends to learn and improve athletes’ overall wellness. For these rotations, I learned that Kim must wear her professional uniform which consists of an NSU athletic training t-shirt, blue or khaki shorts or pants, and sneakers. Each semester she has to log in about 50 hours so she can advance to the next level of the program. A typical rotation can last four hours each session. Overall, Kim introduced the basics of this program which throughout the semester I will learn more about this highly respected program here at Nova.

First Blog Post

This is my first blog post. I will be writing about the Athletic Training Program at Nova Southeastern University this semester. I will observe the students' clinical experiences as they srtive to become future Athletic Trainers.