My ninth rotation was in pediatrics at Queens General Hospital from November 4 to December 6, 2024. During this rotation, I had the opportunity to work in various settings: three weeks in the Pediatric Emergency Room, one week in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and one week in the pediatric clinic. These diverse experiences allowed me to work alongside a multidisciplinary team, including primary care physicians specializing in child and adolescent care, pulmonologists, neurologists, and cardiologists.

In the Pediatric Emergency Room, I gained valuable experience stabilizing acutely ill pediatric patients. I managed cases involving dehydration, respiratory distress, and febrile seizures, which enhanced my ability to respond promptly and effectively to emergencies. I also developed proficiency in assessing age-appropriate developmental milestones and identifying delays, critical for early diagnosis and intervention.

In the NICU, I cared for neonates with conditions such as respiratory distress syndrome, deepening my understanding of neonatal physiology and care protocols. Observing and participating in the management of these fragile patients taught me the importance of meticulous attention to detail and teamwork in providing optimal care.

During my week in the pediatric clinic, I learned the importance of routine vaccinations, growth monitoring, and anticipatory guidance in ensuring healthy development. Working closely with specialists, I gained insights into the management of chronic pediatric conditions, such as asthma and congenital heart disease. I also recognized the significant impact of social determinants of health, including housing, nutrition, and parental education, on pediatric outcomes.

Throughout this rotation, I honed my communication skills to effectively engage both young patients and their caregivers. I focused on delivering clear, empathetic explanations while addressing their concerns with sensitivity and reassurance. Despite these achievements, I encountered challenges, particularly in balancing the fast-paced environment of the Pediatric Emergency Room with thorough documentation and follow-ups. Additionally, I recognized the need to better tailor care to align with cultural and familial values, particularly when addressing sensitive topics like vaccinations.

Moving forward, I plan to dedicate time to reviewing evidence-based guidelines, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommendations, and studying common pediatric conditions frequenly. By doing so, I aim to enhance my clinical knowledge and stay updated on best practices. Furthermore, I will develop strategies to improve task prioritization and time management in high-pressure environments.

By embracing these strategies and committing to continuous learning, I am confident in my ability to grow as a competent and compassionate Physician Assistant, providing high-quality care to pediatric patients and their families.