INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE OF CBSE STUDENTS AT KIMS

INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE OF CBSE STUDENTS AT KIMS – DEPARTMENT OF RADIATION ONCOLOGY

BY SUDEKSHA REDDY XII A

During the Autumn Break, Tanushree, Niharika and I, experienced the procedures and difficulties of the medical profession. We went to KIMS [Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences] to experience the same. Throughout the week, we observed the patients of the cancer department. 

Our day usually started around 10:30 AM. Throughout the internship, we were under the guidance of Dr. Pratap Reddy (Radiation Oncologist).  We spent most of our time observing how the doctor interacted with his patients and how he counseled them. 

Cancer is a major concern to everyone, but it is curable, if detected early. The doctors at the hospital reassure their patients of recovery. As the days progressed, we realized, that the most important and cardinal trait for a doctor is PATIENCE. Patients have many concerns and questions and the treating doctor has to learn to clarify and deal with everything with perseverance.  

There are three types of treatments for cancer: Surgery, Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy. Before any of these can take place, the doctors identify the tumor with the help of scans. We got to see how PET and CT scans are taken and we also observed the images as the doctor explained and taught us how to spot the tumors. Dr. Pratap was also accompanied by Dr. Lalitha and Dr. Sheetal. 

There were three machines for radiation (external) and they were humongous!!! The Brachy Therapy machine was however comparatively small. Dr. Pratap told us that all these machines along with the scanners costed around Rupees 40 crores. Before the patient can go through the scanners and the radiation machines, it is compulsory for them to go to the MOULD ROOM.

 The mould room is a place where they put a mould over where the tumor is and mark the areas. These markings are later used in positioning the patient appropriately during radiation sessions.  As the procedures were going on for each patient, we had the opportunity of seeing the live radiation therapy in progress. 

We also got to observe patients with ulcers in their mouth as this is a symptom of mouth cancer. After lunch everyday around 3:00 PM, we sat with the doctor and asked questions about what we saw that day and around 4:00 PM we left for home.

The whole internship was a fruitful and a once-in-lifetime experience!! Especially when

you are interning under such highly qualified doctors.

We not only learnt a lot but also had loads of fun!! This will always be a memory that we shall cherish. It made us even more dedicated and focused to become a doctor.

All in all, an Autumn Break spent fruitfully!!!