PA Interview Questions! 1

"How did you like your undergraduate institution?"

Class sizes are typically small, giving you the opportunity to easily interact with the professor and other class members. The MTSU campus is a safe and friendly environment with a diverse student body. The science department opened a new science building of costing about 147 million dollars with the latest technology in research and labs for science classes.

Why biochemistry?

Biochemistry is one of those majors where you'll find that everyone you talk to will say, "Oh, you must be smart," unless they too are in the major. The best reason for studying Biochemistry is that it is the study of ourselves and our chemical relationship with the environment. At the core, it provides the required knowledge for the advancement of medicine and its effects on our biology.

Medical Assistant Mission

During a mission for helping refugees under the supervision of Dr. Qase Obied Mohammad, I assisted with drawing blood from patients. Help patients during examination, take and charting medical histories, help remove sutures and change dressings, translate prescription instructions to travelers in area. Shadowing and learning to analyze blood samples for cancer and blood disorders under microscope with Dr. Mohammad. I had interaction with his patients and acted within the guidelines of the hospital rules. I was able to review patient history and discuss lab results, treatments and prognoses.

What is a physician assistant

PA are mid-level healthcare providers that are currently in heavy demand. The PA profession was created to help with the shortage of physicians and to make healthcare more accessible. They are able to make life-saving diagnoses, treat wide-range of illnesses, and prescribe medications in many specialities under the direction of a physician. PA's can take medical histories, conduct physical exams, , order and interpret tests, counsel on preventive care, and even assist in surgery. PAs exercise considerable amount of autonomy but physician and state law determine scope of practice.) I have witnessed the broad spectrum of a PA's duties and responsibilities through shadowing several PAs in various fields from orthopedics to ICU cardiac surgery to primary care medicine to working under a pa on a renal/med surg floor at Saint Thomas.

What do PAs do?

PAs perform a wide range of duties, including providing routine care, treating acute and chronic illnesses, managing hospital inpatients, performing minor surgeries, and assisting during major surgeries. Based on my experience as a tech and through shadowing I have observed several PA's in action. Most of them perform physical exams, analyze x-rays, MRIs, order appropriate tests, suture casts, formulate plan and prescribe medications.

How do you see the healthcare system changing in the next ten years, and how will it affect PAs?

Since PAs are able to do about 85 percent what a physician can do, there will be a even larger demand for the profession.

How does a PA fit into the healthcare model?

They are reshaping healthcare. There is a huge healthcare gap especially seen underserved areas and after the affordable care act. (explain the affordable care act) PAs do not have residencies and shorter education time creates more PAs and are in a better position to fill the healthcare gap.

Affordable Care Act Implications for PAs

This law enacted in 2010 will increase the already huge demand for PAs. This law increases the number of individuals with healthcare and the need for primary care providers increase. PAs do not have residencies and shorter education time creates more PAs and are in a better position to fill the healthcare gap. Additionally, the law covers preventative measures such as vaccinations and primary care annual check ups. PAs are trained as generalists (PANCE exam centered around general medicine) as well that are good fit for the demand. These new insurance policies cover more emergency visits without penalties that will create a high demand for PAs in that field.

What animal would you be and why? (This is weird and may not be super common, but they just want to see how you respond to a question like this)

Those seemingly filthy creatures scampering in the sludge of subway stations or trashcans, rats have empathy for each other. In a famous 1958 experiment, hungry rats that were only fed if they pulled a lever to shock their littermates refused to do so, suggesting that the rodents have a sense of empathy and compassion for their fellows. Another study published in 2006 in the journal Science found that mice would grimace when their compatriots were in pain but only if they knew the mouse personally, they are also creative, practical and well-organized when they are put in mazes and have a good memory.

"What is the biggest problem in health care right now?"

Too much unnecessary care (receiving an MRI when not needed), Its costs, primarily, its universal access which the ACA or the ObamaCare tried to get out by having it a mandate that people have insurance. And so I would say access to care, it would be cost of care, and how much care do we consume.

You have had several jobs in the past; how do we know you will finish the program if we accept you?

I know i will finish because Im a determined individual and I won't stop until I reach my goal of becoming a PA. I only quit them because I wanted to have direct patient care or either a life even happened such as moving.

Why do you wish to become a PA rather than a NP, nurse, or physician?

I like that PAs can work in several different specialties, whereas a doctor has to do another residency or to work in a different field, same is true for nps. I have always been a lifetime learner. I love learning and trying different things. There are many areas of medicine that I am interested in, and I might want to change specialties once or twice in my career. Also, I like the idea of having a supervising physician that I can consult. I do my best work when I am part of a team, working steps ahead compared to someone else alone which increase efficiency and outcome. I want to do this in the operating room as first assistant.

Did you have any trouble finding us?

No, I had set up the location in my maps and had visited the campus before for information session as well.

"What do you think about socialized medicine?"

government pays for all aspects of healthcare: all care, employs providers, runs facilities (canada, gb, finland, and spain)

What experiences influenced you to pursue this career?

shadowing, working as a cna

What are the greatest problems facing the field of medicine in America?

the cost of health care and the shortage of qualified health care professionals. currently the baby boomers are aging and need of alot of medical care and the government is running out of money to fund Medicare.

What have you done to prepare yourself for this profession?

1. I have worked extremely hard to get good grades where I've spent a lot time studying and learning about the healthcare field. 2. I always try to fit volunteering into my schedule and believe helping others without any beneficial gain is the first steps towards being able to heal spiritually and physically as a PA. 3. I have shadowed Physician Assistants which gave me a nice view of what the profession was like. I have shadowed in many specialities to gain a broad spectrum of perspectives and experiences. I have shadowed cardiac surgery ICU at an large hospital, orthopedics in a rural area clinic and primary care in a urban area clinic. 4. I have joined clubs such as biology club that are always trying to help improve the science department and community. 5. I then got a job as a CNA working alongside physicians, PAs, and NPs which allowed me to gain a more in depth view of a PAs everyday life and gave me a chance to work directly with PAs and ask them questions about the career.

If you could pass a law that would help PAs, what would it be?

One of the laws I would like to be passed would be to allow permit Pas to provide and manage hospice care.

How would you deal with someone who looked like they were cheating in class?

- I would tell the classmate after class that I was uncomfortable about that they were cheating and encourage the classmate to tell professor and ask to retake the test the first time talk to them privately after class, no one wants to be made an example of. Second time, privately speak to the teacher What would you do if you saw a classmate cheating on an exam? - If we allow others to cheat , we are only cheating them and their future patients A) if the classmate is okay with cheating, so who knows what kind of things they will be okay with in terms of their patients - giving the wrong meds and not saying anything or changing their charts to cover up their mistakes, if the classmate tells the professor himself the consquences might be lower for them and they would be able to change themselves but if they didnt I would def adhere to class policy and report them to the professor and dean

Describe the history of the PA Profession

- The PA profession evolved in the 1960s when the U.S. was facing a serious shortage and maldistribution of physicians to address the nation's need for primary care services. - Medical corpsmen returning from Vietnam wanted civilian jobs to apply the skills they honed on the battlefield. - To help remedy this, Dr. Eugene A. Stead Jr., MD, of the Duke University Medical Center, put together the first class of PAs in 1965. He selected four Navy Hospital Corpsmen who had received considerable medical training during their military service. - Stead based the curriculum of the PA program on his knowledge of the fast-track training of doctors during World War II. - The medical community helped support the new profession, the AAPA raised as well as NCCPA to sent accreditation standards and certification. - Since then the profession has expanded exponentially and PAs began to close the service demand gap by making services more available, accessible, and affordable.

Are you familiar with any national or state level regulations for PAs?

- To practice as a PA, PA's must graduate from an accredited program and pass the national pa certifying exam administered by the national commission on certification of physician assistants - Recertify q 10 yrs through an exam that evaluates generalist medical knowledge, changed from 6 years in 2014 - complete 100 hours of continuing medical education every 2 years, 50 hours must be from category 1 while rest can be one or two -Specifically in tennessee, there are no limit number of pas that a physician can supervise, no cosign requirements, - PA Charts do not require physician cosignatory Pas cannot make a final diagnosis or interpret lab st dies, X-rays, EKGS. - Pas can own up to 99% of a clinic - There is no requirement for patient to be seen by a physician on initial evaluation/consult

Do you prefer to work with others or by yourself?

-with others! Teamwork! Collaboration! More brains is better, more ideas and thus more things I cant think of alone. More help! I believe in healthcare, we are all a huge team in order to provide the best care. There is a chain of command in the healthcare setting but can only provide the best care to the patient as team where everyone has a special role. You cannot treat a patient as PA without your microbiologist in the lab or without the office assistant to help patient's financial needs.

Do you have any questions for us?

1. Is there a free clinic in or near campus where the students can use/practice their newly learned skills? 2. Do you find that your graduates are more likely to work in a particular field? 3. Im really drawn to this program because of the university providing notable teaching and simulation facitilicities. I do understand simulation allows participants to purposely undertake high-risk activities or procedural tasks within a safe environment without dangerous implications to themselves or their patients. Do you think that gives students an advantage in having more opportunities to gain greater understanding about the consequences of their actions and the need to reduce any errors and prevent them from happening again? 4. Do you find your graduates are more likely to work in a particular field besides the speciality of family medicine? 5. What do you like most about teaching at this program? What do you like most about working with PA students? 2. I do see that the program monitors its student's progress very closely in didactic and clinical to ensure successful completion. How available are professors for? 3. How does your curriculum stand out/how confident are you in the curriculum (tailor to specific schools) 4. What is the didactic year schedule like? Does it consist of 9-5 classes usually) If I enter your program, will a preceptor be found for me, or will I be responsible for finding one myself? "Are there any major changes that you anticipate in the program in the next two years?" 5. Do you find that classmates tend to be competitive or collaborative?

dependent practitioner

A dependent practitioner are permitted to practice only under the supervision of another licensed healthcare provider. PA's are dependent practitioners. They are required to work under the supervision of a physician.

How many hours a week do you plan on studying?

As many hours as it takes to learn the material. It's hard to put an exact number on it because I always study as much as I can and attempt to understand the information to the fullest.The number of hours will vary depending on didactic vs clinical phases, and the courseload. I will not be working while in PA school so I plan to study as many hours as it takes me to master the material! I believe what is more important than the amount of hours is the way you study the material. I have a friend who is in pa school and explains he would not be able to ......

Clinical Assistant for Athletic Training

Assist the certified athletic trainer to provide emergency care, examination, treatment, therapeutic rehabilitation of medical conditions and injuries for athletes relating to bone and muscle. Under the supervision and collaboration from multiple physicians, I assisted with checking and monitoring vital signs such as blood pressure and pulse rate. To prevent and treat injuries in athletes, used medical devices such as brace or tape on wrists and ankles. Use developed plans to implement routine for injury and illness prevention. Observed certified athletic trainer give appropriate medication.

Saint Thomas West

Assisted hospital patients on the seventh floor in the renal, diabetes and medical surgery unit. Daily duties included taking vitals multiple times a day for patients including weight, temperature, blood pressure and blood sugar. Additionally, I assisted patients with hygiene routines, answering call lights, making routine rounds for checking up on patients and ADLs. Assisted nurses in charting of patients, examination of patients and medical equipment. Collect information regarding treatment plan and patient history. Provided assistance in mobility for patients

How have you stayed current

By becoming involved, I have learned more about the PA profession, and I will get unique opportunities to educate others about what PAs can do. There are also endless job and networking opportunities that come with these activities. I have joined the AAPA (american academy of physician assistant to stay up to date on all things relating to the PA profession. such the big milestone after fifty years where the Optimal Team Practice was approved where PA can be full voting members, where would be reimbursed directly from government and insurance companies and even determining the degree of collaboration between physician and pa at the practice level. Learning on TNPA about CME and the requirement for PI-CME where there is a process for comparison of Compare some aspect of practice to national benchmarks, Based on the comparison, develop and implement a plan for improvement in that area. and observing the change in results. it is evidence based learned where it is the process of reviewing, appraising and using clinical research in the classroom, which can then be applied to a clinical setting I work directly under a PA observing when they put in orders such as stat order of npo, In general, Ive become student of the profession, and I am very passionate and excited about the potential to become a pa. I hope to attend Fallfest at the Gatlinburg convention center where you will opportunity to attend workshop teared toward the PA students in tasks such as suturing and talk with different PAs. TNPA for new PI-CME requirement and for fallfest. I have reached out to multiple people in PA school to gain a thorough understanding of what is like to be in pA school and how to prepare my self.

Sanford Medical Experience Shadow (80)

Contact with professionals in the healthcare field. Access to specialized areas of health through clinical sessions. Opportunity to explore different careers in the healthcare by shadowing and talking with healthcare professionals at Sanford hospital. Observed a pathologist physician assistant workplace and the human specimens she used to determine cause of death. Observed a pediatrician and the urgent care helicopter team set up and in action.There was a interview session with different healthcare professions asking why they chose their field and the different aspects of their jobs.

What kind of personal stress do you see associated with our PA program?

From alumni in the past that have been in the program, I can say balancing time management. Learning to balance your schedule and time, wether for school, family or other things is a great way to reduce that stress. I have been always good with time management and I am prepare to adapt to the classes and work load. Its important to keep a journal log of task and at the end of the day you will be suprised at the amount of accomplishment you have gained.

What would be your ideal job as a PA?

From my shadowing experience, I defineltly would love to have a job in cardiac surgery or primary care. I would love to work in a rural community as well to help medically underserved community.

Physician Assistant Shadowing ICU

Had the privilege to shadow Edmund Donahue, PA-C multiple times in cardiac surgery intensive care unit at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. He is a first assist in surgery and a practicing physician assistant in the cardiac unit. I observed the interaction and roles between the physicians and physician assistant. On the basis of direct observation, I analyzed the daily workload of the physician assistant's day in the intensive care unit at Vanderbilt for cardiac surgery. I followed him and his coworkers who are cardiac physicians and surgeons physicians in their rounds in the unit.

NHC Murfreesboro (National Healthcare Corporation)

Help patients with their health needs, ADLs, and concerns as a nursing assistant. Completed daily measure of vital signs, answer call lights and proper health chart recording (DART charting) for patient physical changes, nutrition intake and vitals. Measured patient vitals such as temperature, weight, pulse and blood pressure. Tended to patient health issues including prevention and treatment of various illnesses due to their immobility. For example, I provided proper hygiene, body examinations, and ensure that they are healing properly by treating and preventing bed sores in patients.

What would you do if a patient adamantly refuses to be seen by a PA?

I actually asked Mrs Lacy, PA in orthopedics and she explained that maybe every year, there will be one or two that will refuse. She explains you let the physician know and let them give the care to the patient. She did explained how refreshing it is though that more and more every year, people would request her as a pa over her physician. The physician was not at the clinic everyday, it was just one of the clinics he owned in the area and the patients preferred having her since they would have to see just one provider through out their experience at the clinic and if they vwant timely, affordable, competant medical care...

How are you today?

I am doing well. Excited to be here and honored. How are you doing?

So, tell us a little about yourself. In other words: Why are you here?

I am here to prove to you that I am a good fit for your PA program. My patient care experience as a CNA on the renal/med/surg floor, as a medical assistant on my medical mission, as athletic trainer and pharmacy technician gave me wide berth of knowledge into the medical field. I have fullfilled all the requirements for your program and have the test scores as well. I have shadowed a PA from your program to confirm that the profession is for me. It is my American dream to be part of your program to become a PA.

What is your opinion on the US and Canadian health care systems? Which is better and why?

I believe Canada's healthcare system is misunderstood. Its not entirely free, Canadians still have to pay for medications, ambulance services and dental. 75 percent is publicly funded but it is delivered privately. Central agency sets standardized fees so wages are low. They do have better life expectancy, lower infant mortality rates, obesity and lower rates of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. However, there are disadvantages due to longer wait times sometimes triples that for speciality. I think at a base level, where necessary primary care should be free. I believe individuals should have the opportunity to obtain private and better care if they are financially available to.

"How do you think physician assistants learn to be compassionate?"

I believe during clinical and from their past patient contact hours, you realize that patients are more than someone who you need to treat, they become relatable, they become something you look forward to coming into work for, you realize that this person could one day be your grandmother in need, I believe that student and PAs learn that placing themselves in the role of the patient in a vulnerable situation to understand what it may feel like.Be genuine when you speak with your patients. If you are insincere, most patients will sense it. Treat patients with the same kindness and empathy you would treat a friend.

"Who is someone that embodies professionalism in your eyes, and why?"

I believe one of the nurses I work with at Saint Thomas embodies professionalism. She always puts the patient first (not sitting down for hours, she will not take break,) she will care for the patient for the benefit of their health even if the patient's views and actions are negative), she communicates effectively with me and coworkers, and I love that she shares her knowledge. She will always offer insight into a patient's condition knowing I want as much clinical experience as i can have, she has the right attitude at heart and its shows in her actions that follow the hospital guidelines

How do you feel about taking call or working 60 or more hours per week as a second-year student?

I believe the average would struggle and thats why admission into the program is very competitive. I believe the requirements of having a high GPA and having healthcare experience from work shows that an individual has the ability to multitask and to excel academically. I believe from my experiences and academics, I have the strength and organization to be able to master and excel in working this type of schedule. Additionally, I have always had a strong support system from my family to balance out. I am prepared to do whatever it takes to make my dream of becoming a PA a reality. I have heard stories and read blogs of PA students and understand how intense and the fast paced both the didactic and clinical phase is.

Who is the most important person on the healthcare team?

I believe the patient is the most important part. The PA, doctor, nurse are there to primarily there to help patients feel valued and respected, and by listening and communicating effectively with our patients we can develop a treatment plan specifically around "their" needs. Patients are the center and the most valuable part of the team. It is also important for the patient to feel that its ok to question the healthcare provider when in self-doubt and encourage them to be proactive. There is no hierarchy and the patient has the right to express themselves freely.

Tell us about yourself.

I came to US when I was six months old. I was born in a refugee camp under a tent in Turkey, (Saddam Hussein genocide). Growing up my family had hard time making ends meet and I had to work most of the time while going to school which has made me stronger for time management and more appreciative of the things I have. I have wanted to be a pa since highschool when I was accepted into accelerated pa program, wasnt able to start masters part due to family circumstances...i have worked in pharmacy, genetics vaccination laboraory and still have wanted to be a pa. I have worked as patient tech to gain more patient contact and I hope to one day be able to serve my community as a pa.

Tell me about your self?

I came to the United States when I was six months old from Iraq escaping the genocide against the Kurdish people from Saddam Hussein. I come from a family of seven and I am the first generation to go to college. I finished my bachelors in biochemistry from MTSU and in pre-physician assistant. I'm a big advocate on eating healthy and living a life of value. I have wanted to be a PA since highschool. I was in accelerated BS/MS PA program, I did not start the actual PA program part due to unfortunate family circumstances where my husband did not know English at the time and could not find a job in the small town the college was located in. I have worked in different healthcare roles such pharmacy, CNA, athletic training and laboratory and this greater affirmed my a passion for being a PA. The other professions felt more of a verification process rather than the decision making career a pa entitles to. I love being able to give back to the community where I volunteered in a medical facilities for relocated Iraqis in the Kurdistan region where I spiritually connected with many patients. I became a CNA in order to again be able to hold hands with my patients and care for their needs. I love being able to follow my dreams to be a pa. I always tell my husband that America is a land of opportunity that gives second chances. He has come a long way, know english very well and actually just gained his citizenship last month!

Why PA over NP and MD?

I do respect each profession and think they are all important. I want the option to switch between specialties, which is not as flexible as an MD and NP. Personally, this is appealing because I am the type of person who likes to try new things and challenge myself. Also, I like that PAs have an emphasis on team-based care, because I think consulting with other healthcare professionals will lead to better care for the patient. MDs also have a lot more administrative work, such as opening up a facility and hiring employees, and I want to focus more on the patient side of work. Also, the major role that PAs play in underserved communities is appealing to me. I have spent a large amount of time in a developing country, and I understand the differences between their system and ours. I want a career that enableme to provide care for those who need it most.

Should physician assistants change their name to "physician associate?"

I do see the disadvantages of the term assistant where it may imply ....education level below a masters where medical assistants and pas are sometimes interchanged where does no justice for their advance training, however associate is very vague and nowadays any employee is called an associate and would not describe the job very properly. The public has come a long way to learn assistant and changing it would cause more confusion. May being called a physician extender would be more appropriate but in the long run it does change what we do for patients and thats what important. I believe if the status and title is what is important in the job as a pa, then you are in the wrong field! The patients are reason, not the salary or reputation, people with this attitude would have a hard time going through the rigorous education and commitment.

Should be PA education be standardized to a master's degree?

I do understand where some might have a shorter education due to having tremendous amount of healthcare experience before hand but I believe there should a standardized level of education because a physician assistant's responsibility is the same when providing for the patient. What you provide as a provider the training and education needed for that comes from having academic discipline and balance that comes from years of higher education.

How many tests and quizzes do expect to take a week and what can you handle

I expect there will be a few quizzes every week and two or three exams a week. I feel I can handle as many exams that are given to me. I have confidence that the schools curriculum will be adequate enough to give me the material I need and I have the study habits that it takes, so I feel like I can handle any number of quizzes or exams given. I have take many upper level science courses where three exams a week in addition to working part-time was not uncommon.

Why do you want to be a physician assistant?

I first grew interest of the profession when my family had an oncology PA care for my brother's Wilm's tumor diagnosis. I observed and admired how the PA spent adequate amount of time, his compassion and drive was the reason my brother was able to recover in a shorter amount of time. I am interested in a patient-focused career where I can be fully trained to start serving patients in just a few years. . My passion for helping others grew, as well as my confidence in the path to becoming a PA through my different experiences such as working as a CNA and working along side athletic trainer in sports medicine, though I have enjoyed working in those positions, I really hope to serve patients in a greater capacity and play larger role in their healthcare. For me, being a PA aligns perfectly with what I am looking for in a medical career. I have interviewed, worked alongside, and shadowed nurses, nurse practitioners, PAs and physicians, and found that the role of a PA has the balance of autonomy and collaboration that I am looking for. Of course, I have considered different roles in healthcare, like pharmacy but I've decided I enjoy diagnostics and want to be the one to create the plan of action. I like that PAs can work in several different specialties, whereas a doctor has to do another residency or to work in a different field, same is true for nps. I have always been a lifetime learner. I love learning and trying different things. There are many areas of medicine that I am interested in, and I might want to change specialties once or twice in my career. Also, I like the idea of having a supervising physician that I can consult. I do my best work when I am part of a team, working steps ahead compared to someone else alone which increase efficiency and outcome. I want to do this in the operating room as first assistant. Additionally, an aspect that I love about the field is the abundant opportunity where I would like to be able to work in areas to help the low income and work on missions globally. Individuals with no insurance or state funded healthcare are more likely to see a PA than a physician. Being on mediciad at the time of his cancer, I understand how PAs are the solution to today's underserved areas. I want to be able to serve those similar areas that are in need of medical services similar to my birth in a refugee camp that had no healthcare professionals.

What kind of stress do you see associated with the PA profession?

I foresee it being a bit stressful to possibly encounter a supervising physician that never sees eye to eye with me or always tries to change my plan of care. With that said I am someone who is always open to hear others points of view and others ideas on matters so even though this will be stressful it will also be beneficial to have someone else's opinion on matters.

Memorable time at Saint Thomas and teamwork

I had a gentleman who had been admitted into the hospital from a nursing home for a . Every first wednesday night I believe they do a generator test and all the lights would go off for about a 20 seconds. I was in another room changing a patients telemetry box leads while another nurse was in the room giving medication I believe. Once the lights went off one night, I heard the man yelling and his bed alarm going off. I quickly asked the nurse if she could take over the leads and agreed. I saw on his telemetry screen, his heart was in tachy. I raced in and called another nurse and tech inside. When he realized there was a couple of people in the room, he calmed down, I held his hand and shoulder while the nurse helped with his legs and helped him back to bed safely and he explained he thought he was in Katrina again where he had been stuck for days and abused. I quickly explained it was a test and that I would stay by his bedside until all of the lights would go on again. I made sure the nurses and my other CNA knew of the situation. They agreed to keep an eye on my patients. He asked me where I was from and explained that I was kurdish and his eyes opened wide and was very interested. It was the first time I saw him smile and happy. As I was leaving his room I asked if there was anything else I could do before I left. I thought he had responded by telling me to give him good news. Knowing there was no good news, I believe he was being sent to Hospice for cancer, I asked him what he had said. He said " I asked the doctor for a good nurse so they sent me you", (he thought I was a nurse, not CNA) I will never forget that man or his kind words that night. He made me remember why I had became a CNA!

Describe an interaction you have had with a patient that made an impact on you.

I had a patient who was in the last stages of cancer on my medical mission in Iraq. Her prognosis changed from a couple of months to weeks. She also had lost a lot of her family in Baghdad. She was without family and in a great deal of pain. I was able to make extra time with this patient and help ease her stress at nighttime. To be able to listen and have empathy made a large difference in her mood. When she was able to tell me personal fond memories of her past and gave me advice on living life to the fullest. I explained my dream of being a PA. She told me to follow my dream and never give because I was the one that night that made her heal better than the medication. She said she would pray for me to become successful in that career. When I held her hand while trying to take out the IV, I knew this is where I want to spend my life in and confirmed my passion to be able to connect and heal patients as a PA.

Tell me about a hard experience with a patient?

I had an older gentlemen on renal floor one night, he was on tube feeding and was not responsive to my questions about him feeling any pain or for lifting his arm to obtain his blood pressure. I was charting later that night when I heard his bed alarm go off. I raced down there to find him on the edge of the bed with his NG tube ripped out from his nose. I quickly explain to him that if he could go back into bed because I want him to be safe, he became aggitated and starting trying to stand, he was extremely weak and I helped sit him down. He become forceful and I right away called for the nurse call light and called out for help in the hall way. I had a nurse in training come inside the room, I explained that the patient was violent and we need more nurses in the room, I saw his nurse come in the room and explain to her that she needed to talk with the physician to help calm down the patient. I stayed in the room with the nurse in training and the physician was able to order an anxiety medication. When he was telling me and the nurse that were useless at helping him and he wanted to go have breakfast at three in the morning, I just help set in perspective my reason for being there, I want to be able to reach out with God's love and help as many people unconditionally. Love is very patient and I believe that patience is a necessity one must have in the field of medicine.

Your file indicates that you have had difficulty with __(e.g., time management or science course work). Would you like to explain this?

I had difficult time with this course due to I had many upper level science courses while working full time hours at my job. We had under staffed pharmacy and had to help out more at work. I still was able to make good grades and help out at work.

"Is there a time where you witnessed a physician assistant interacting with a patient in a manner you believed to be unprofessional?"

I have always experience professionalism with the PAs, NPs, and residents that come into patient's rooms. I have at time seen you know either the resident or pa come in the room and see that i'm changing the patient and ask apologize and wait outside the door for their privacy. They always are smiling and polite to the patients even with their busy schedules!

What do you do outside of work or academic studies?

I like to volunteer with a PA at Vanderbilt cardiac surgery ICU, I will soon go observe in the operating room as well. Additionally, I love to read novels and research medical conditions from patients I had from the night before. I love to exercise and volunteer in my community whether its at my community prayer by helping the elderly find place to sit or setting up community evens such as Nawroz. Additionally, I love to read news articles to stay up to date on the news. Its important to not ignore the rest of the world when your life is not in danger or in hardship. That is one of the reason I love this profession because there are many PAs that go on medical missions to help others world wide.

What part of becoming a PA and practicing medicine as a PA do you look forward to most? What parts will give you the most difficulty?

I look forward to the smiles and look of relief on the faces of patients and their families I can bring one day after a successful surgery or being able to treat a patient properly after a long journey from not knowing their illness. I definitely want to allow them to feel involved in their treatment plan and allow them to give me the best through communicating changes and observations that can make a real difference in their medical care. I would always encourage patients to bring list of questions and concerns. I want to change the way patients think of their provider, I want them to be able to feel comfortable, involved and have an easier experience. For example its the little things that count, I had one patient who doctor came to just visit and check upon him after his surgery at another hospital, he spent a couple hours of just talking and the patient's confidence and depression from losing his phalanges demineshed.

Dickson Orthopedics & Sports Medicine (16)

I observed Lacie Baker, PA-C in her clinic specializing in orthopedics and sports medicine. I was able to view patient fractures and other injuries on x-rays and MRI results. I also analyzed her patient interaction, injection administrations, and treatment plans she discussed with her patients. I followed her to her patient examination rooms, I learned how she dictated information for patient records at the end of her shift that are used for other medical providers to see and for insurance companies. She discussed and showed me the computer system used for patient records and communication

If you had to be a member of the healthcare team other than a PA, what would you choose?

I only want to be a PA. I have a past as a nursing assistant but I have noticed a cap to my skills and education. I chose to be a PA to expand on this. If I had to choose, I would still be a nursing assistant becuase I enjoyed working with the many patients I have met.

How do you plan to pay for your education?

I plan to use my education savings and take out loans through financial aid. I also plan on applyingThe J.C Carey Memorial Scholarship found on the TNPA.

"What is a time you experienced failure and what did you do?"

I played softball throughout high school and during college, I tried out for my university's team. The majority of the girls on the team made it on the roster. Me and another girl did not make the cut for the softball team. I felt extreme embrassment. However, my advisor who was a PA at the university explained that things happen for a reason. He explained that I should go talk to the coach and see where I can improve. I did and she told me that the athletic training department needed assisting in the clinic and that way I could also see how the team was doing and interact with the team in a clinical setting. It was perfect and I do see how sometimes a door closing in a direction might open up to a room to a bigger advantage.

Tell us about a time you worked with someone you didnt like?

I rarely meet someone that I do not like, as I try to find the good in everyone. We had a young gentlemen one night who admitted in the ER for a dislocated shoulder and was transferred to the renal floor because he was a diabetic patient and was waiting on some tests I believe. When I walked into the room for vitals I realized the gentlemen had dislocated his shoulder again and was asking for pain medication. We had called the physician to come back upstairs and help the young man. The physician refused in saying he had done it purposely. I was concerned for this patient's surrounding tissues, nerve damage and muscles such as the rotator cuff being at risk for damage. I saw on his chart he has some psychological issues such as being manupliative for pain medications. I understood the physcian's view point but I still didnt believe leaving a patient in pain and at risk for more complications is the solution. Maybe a transfer to the psych where they might have been able to manage that would have been more beneficial. The nurse and I discussed our concerns and I recommended calling the physician again and giving that recommendation. My shift was over by then and I had to go home. I did not see the end result but my hope is the physician had found a better solution for him. Finding I did not see eye to eye with this individual I just help set in perspective my reason for being there, I want to be able to reach out with God's love and help as many people unconditionally. Love is very patient and I believe that patience is a necessity one must have in the field of medicine.

Where do you see the future of medicine heading?

I see there being an increase demand for Pas and NPS due to the shortage of MDs over the past years, demand of low cost healthcare, and increase population. i think the future of medicine is also in genome sequeincing and expansion of pa. However what definelty uncertain and a problem is healthcare and its availibility to everyone.

What will you do if you don't get in this year?

I will not give up on my dreams. I will analyze the strengths and weaknesses to make a game plan. I will go back to school take some classes, and keep applying to schools that would be a great fit for me. I would obtain more PCE hour, shadow more PAs in different fields and apply again and as many time as it takes.

"What do you think of evidence based medicine?"

I think its an important for modern medicine where key to clinical effectiveness & decision making in terms of effects of therapy, utility diagnostic tests, prognosis of disease and etiology of disorders.

"What do you think makes a good leader?"

I think most people are able to give orders but what sets apart a greater leader is emotional intelligence, credibility. People who are in control of their feelings and impulses, people who are reasonable, are able to create an environment of trust and fairness. In such an environment, tensions in the team are sharply reduced and credibility and productivity is high.

What interests you most about our school?

I truely aspire to be part of the physician assistant program at Trevecca because of their admirable perspective on proper patient healing. I agree with Trevecca's mission that patient care is defined by healing not only though the physiology of the body but in a spiritual manner as well. I'm truely inspired by the opportunity and amount of students that travel abroad to serve globally. The classes such as medical ethics will help when providing for patients from diverse backgrounds. I would love to be part of the missions as well. I have always wanted to be part of a healthcare team in underserved communities and the program has opportunities to help such communities such as The Clinic at Mercury Courts and Room In The Inn where we would be to help the homeless and medically underserved. Additionally, the program has a 100 percent pance pass rate and has been consistently above 95 percent for past five years.

Tell me what your typical day looks like?

I work night shifts, so just bare with me as my schedule is a little different than most. Since I work nights, I usually wake up around 1 in the afternoon. My husband and I make breakfast. I like to mediate and go for runs in the park or stay inside read a book. I catch up on my reading material such as news articles, novels, and researching medical conditions that I had been given report on patients from last night shift. I will relax for a couple hours before making a snack for us before I leave for work around six in the evening. On my days off, I love to go hiking, go to community prayer, volunteer in community events, cook exotic meals and keep up on my exercise at gym.

Your supervising MD tells you to do something that you know is dead wrong; what do you do?

I would go talk in private to explain my perspective and explain the consequences. I will make sure I fully understand the patients condition -consider possible harmful outcomes if medicine is administered -explain/express concerns to physician, if agreement can't be made, document it in chart, do NOT order if confident that it would harm the pt because you are the provider for the patient and you have to sign the orders.

What makes you stand out from the person sitting next to you this morning?

I would like think my personality and experience. I have gained a variety of healthcare experience that has dealt with patient care contact, learned and worked with different medications that are prescribed to patients, to making the medications in vaccination form in the laboratory. Additionally, I believe its my work ethic. Many of my friends, family, teachers, and coworkers tell me that I am the hardest working person they know. Whether it is in the classroom, or at work I have the ability to block out distractions and concentrate on the matter at hand. I believe it arises from my innate joy of accomplishing difficult tasks and growing up as a refugee and first generation to aspire for higher education where resources were limited. Additionally, I also believe I have a lot of influence on my community. I have volunteered in Habits of the Heart where younger girls of my culture were taught and given resources to follow their independence and aspirations in their careers. Be able to follow and finishing my dreams of being a PA will give confidence and inspirations to my girls. I believe in being a PA is not just to provide care to others but to have opportunity to give back to community. I believe coming from a diverse background, im more prepared to better adapt to the current patient population.

If we have only one position left to fill why should we pick you?

I would like think my personality and experience. because i would be an asset to your program with my unique background. I have gained a variety of healthcare experience that has dealt with patient care contact, learned and worked with different medications that are prescribed to patients, to making the medications in vaccination form in the laboratory. Additionally, I believe its my work ethic. Many of my friends, family, teachers, and coworkers tell me that I am the hardest working person they know. Whether it is in the classroom, or at work I have the ability to block out distractions and concentrate on the matter at hand. I believe it arises from my innate joy of accomplishing difficult tasks and growing up as a refugee where resources were limited. Additionally, I also believe I have a lot of influence on my community. I have volunteered in Habits of the Heart where younger girls of my culture were taught and given resources to follow their independence and aspirations in their careers. Be able to follow and finishing my dreams of being a PA will give confidence and inspirations to my girls.

What do you want to be doing five years from now?

I would like to be working in a medical underserved clinic in primary care for low income families such as the one my mother would take me and my siblings growing up where I bonded closely with my primary care doctor Dr Reddy. My mother and I would always tell her she felt like a great aunt or like grandma because my grandma lives in Iraq and she was someone my family was in the care, she was wise and gave more than medical advice, it was like talking to my grandmother.

"Why did you choose PA school over medical school?"

I'm sure because it was become my dream over these past years. These past years Ive worked aside Pas and physicians, pharmacists, laboratory scientists and I still aspire to be a PA. I don't see my working in any other career than this one. I have come across a lot of doctors who are not personable and give the patient the facts of their condition but don't make them feel any better ii. From my experience PA's are more amiable iii. Don't want to spend 5 to 8 years becoming a doctor iv. Ability to switch fields is also appealing allowing me to follow passions that I may develop d. Like that I will have a doctor available for consultation

"What have you learned in your current job?"

I've learned that life is oh so precious, we tend to take being healthy for granted, Having the opportunity to take care of these elderly patients, and hear stories about their lives and how they came to value the meaning of them, brings a special perspective into my life. I now see that getting bogged down in daily difficulties results in missing out on the absolutely priceless moments and events in life. Additionally, Ive learned I'm mentally tough in an environment that can is unpredictable and easily overwhelming to the average person. Every shift is going to be a collage of feelings. Residents are going to be unwittingly hilarious. Individuals are going to tell you they want to die. You will cheer the smallest successes people have. And how you feel about your actions at the end of the day makes all the feelings worth it.

What is the difference between a PA and an NP?

In a typical clinic you may not be able to tell the difference between a PA and an NP. In order to become nurse practitioner, usually you have to be a nurse first and you may have to received your education through a nursing program. Physician Assistant received their education and are trained at a medical school. Also when they practice they must practice under the supervision of a physician. NPs and PAs are licensed healthcare providers and are accredited by exam. Both professions also have prescriptive rights in all 50 states, with some limitations varying from state to state. PAs follow a medical type of model for training and have a great deal of autonomy although they must be under the supervision of a physician. Most PAs have a master's degree. They attend programs that focus on the medical aspects of health care, training them to be general practitioners, though PAs can specialize in everything from primary care to pediatrics and general surgical care. A NP is an advanced degree and one must first have a BSN along with some experience as an RN. Although it varies state to state NPs have a greater deal of autonomy and do not always need the supervision of a physician. The benefit of a PA is that PAs retain the right to change specialty whenever they want, a feature physicians and NPs do not have.

What is your understanding of what Physician Assistants do?

In my understanding after shadowing numerous PA's and working with several..Pas can take medical histories, conduct physical exams, Diagnose and treat illness, order and interpret test, assist in surgery and also prescribe prescriptions. See their own patients just as an M.D. does but has the opportunity to consult an M.D. if confronted with a more difficult case. However I believe they are teachers. They have the responsibility of being able to adapt to each patient's personality and be able teach the patients about their health. PAs are also healers, they have the opportunity to heal spiritually as well. To heal a stressed mind goes a long way in term of being able to reaching a healthy body.

What is one problem that you see in patient to provider contact?

It can be hard to speak up if the doctor or nurse if perceived to be rushed and ready to move on to the next patient. I believe there should be no sense of a hierarchy in the medical field where the patient should feel as a proponent of their own health care. Many times patients are intimidated, or sometimes bewildered, by the medical world around them. Sometimes they have self doubt questioning the health professionals. We need to let them know that it is okay to ask questions and to take charge of their health. I mean its true we are the experts of the body but they know their body more than anybody else in the world and intuition is a key player. I definitely want to allow them to feel involved in their treatment plan and allow them to give me the best through communicating changes and observations that can make a real difference in their medical care. I would always encourage patients to bring list of questions and concerns.

What did you learn from your overseas internship/experience?

It is important to see healthcare in other parts of the world. I saw how cultural values are super important (we cant impose our culture on others). People were more reluctant to receive care where some refused and wanted to leave it all in god's hands. Many a times, the older generation were forced to come in by their children. There is still a belief a portion of the population has that going to the doctor is not the solution rather than going to a priest or mala or drinking an organic herbal solution from a religious figure. Additionally, is the importance of family in medical followup treatment. Unlike the individualistic culture of the United States where people see themselves as independent of groups, in collectivistic cultures, like Kurdistan, the self is seen as part of the group where for example I would see many children suffering from calcium deficeincies and asking for intaking more calcium had to be given to the whole family including the parents because the chances are everyone else in the family was calcium deficient. It also was interesting to see how much of a difference the care was because it is all government funded, no insurance, less stress for patients to come in and quicker. The downside was that in clinics and hospitals that were free, the quality of care was less such the doctors would spend less time with patients since there more patients than doctors could see. We can learn from them to help change ours as well too where maybe free healthcare is not the right answer. For example in Canada, having the free healthcare, the wait times to see a specialist are sometime triple of the US. HIPAA regulations in my mission in Iraq was almost nonexistent and it shows the importance of implementing that in their healthcare system. There were many times a patient would be too shy to explain a female issue to the doctor when there were other people in the office as well right by side her. Also I learned that no matter where in the world, the pain and stress from being sick is the same for the patient and family, not matter the skin color or religion. They need someone competent to help them heal and that is why it is important for providers in America to have the opportunity to help globally every once in awhile. I believe everyday America is exponentially increasing in diversity and the ability of the healthcare provider.

Why did you choose to apply to the UTHSC PA program? What about this program do you find unique or appealing

Living and breathing as a pre-pa student since high school, i realize that PA school will two years of heavy academics, probably class 8-5 every day and studying late into the night for the 1st year and full time clinicals so going to a program that has the right resources and environment is essential for the success of its students and i believe this program has those qualities. Having spoken with a current student at ,the program, I know here i wont be worried about being just a name or a face at another program, It shows to be a familial environment and i can see that the faculty and staff that would have my best interest at heart and know me as a whole person. Usually I would not discuss this so openly but here you make me feel comfortable and I feel like myself from the moment of coming to interview here and will continue to even when I am an alum hopefully one day. She said the staff and factulty consistency give a positive environment such always stating that you will be a good pa one day. It nice to see that the factulty understands the hard work and appreciate the sacrifices the students make to get to pa school. She told me that there will be a brand new stimulation lab I do understand simulation allows participants to purposely undertake high-risk activities or procedural tasks within a safe environment without dangerous implications to themselves or their patients. I also love the small class size because that makes it very collaborative and more opportunities to bond through social activities and volunteering. I've also heard that the school uses team based learning and having done team collaborated classes, I love that it would help retain more information better. I also love that during classes students have actual patients to preform exams before starting clinicals. Finally, I think a big factor that sets this school apart, u know being transferred to the college of medicine, the students are able to preform the dissection themselves rather than watching a dissected one from factulty. I see that there are free weekly tutoring sessions from medical students and Im sure there plethora of other resources for students to academically succeed.

What is managed care and how has it affected physicians and PAs?

Managed care is a variety of different techniques and divisions that have been implemented to overall reduce health cost and make healthcare more efficient and standardized, implemented since 1980s. I think as a PA it can be both hurtful and helpful. If you are a part of a managed care organization than it guarantees a certain amount of patients that will be coming to see you, however it also very much can limit the treatments, procedures, and care plans that you would like to provide and be forced to putting into place the care plan they deem as appropriate. there are different types of managed care such as HMO (pay for only ones in network) and PPO preferred (pay more for ones in network) Increase demand for PA bc Increased demand for primary care, less expensive than MD. The use of PAs in managed health care settings will likely increase to meet growing primary care demands. Analysts have found the cost of a PA ranges from 25 percent to 53 percent of the cost of a physician. PAs are capable of providing care for 86 percent of the diagnoses seen in outpatient primary care setting, and patient acceptance is high.

How has your previous clinical and non-clinical experience prepared you for a career as a medical clinician?

My experiences in college and at work not only prepared me for my career, it prepared me for life outside of my career. I gained skills that cannot be taught in a classroom. Through interactions with fellow students, professors, supervisors, and coworkers, as well as other college staff, I earned a "degree" in people and social skills that I did not even sign up for. Being a medical clinician has much to do with patient interaction and social skills. Being able to comfortably communicate with each patient is very important as a physician assistant.

Habits of the Heart (40)

My friend Laurie (she was in the peace corps that helped children with education supplies in areas devastated by war) helped gather Group of women that strive to empower younger women by helping them build up their confidence and independence. The women the club has helped includes a majority of refugees and students from low income backgrounds. Through community projects, mentorship and group activities, the club observed a strong improvement in the lives of these young women. I help Mentored younger Kurdish women on how to aspire for a college degree and to become more self sufficient. in 2013. For example, I would help them prepare for college by showing them when and how to fillout their fafsa. Also I would help give tips and criticism towards making resume. Community projects include gathering the families that have recently immigrated to the Moorhead area and teaching English to those which have recently immigrated and help involve them into american civic opportunities such as voting but at the same Preserve the cultural heritage of the Kurdish people and educating American who we are a people. The Kurdish Community project has helped hundreds of families with affordable housing, employment, a driver's license, legal issues and moving out of poverty.

What are your strengths as an applicant?

My strengths as an applicant is I have the key personality traits of what all pas need where being trustworthy, compassionate, patient during stressful times, and a good communicator. Also my collegues and mentors have explained im mature, respectful and courteous. I have the components of what consistutes good bedside manner where I am able to to build trust between the patient and I, Im able to show compassion for their concerns and communicate clear and consisily with the patient. Additionally, observation from my experienc,, it shows I'm academically driven, I have a strong work ethic and not a quitter, people often tell me my work ethic inspires them to get the job done as well. People person Good bedside manner Patience Personality- type that can get along with several personality types Empathy a. academically driven b. strong work ethic - people often tell me my work ethic inspires them to get the job done as well c. love working with and helping people d. not a quitter, do what it takes to get the job done e. I am fascinated with the human body and the advances in medicine and the new treatment options becoming available. f. Mature, respectful, courteous

What accommodations, if any, do you need to successfully complete this program?

NO. I don't need any accomandtions. I believe Im prepare to be successful in this program .

"Tell me about a time when you disagreed with someone or something. How did you work that out?"

On the renal med surg floor when I was on orientation, I was placed with different preceptors who were to supervise and train me to transition to the floor for a couple of weeks. Before and after shift, the CNAs are to give bedside report on the patients to the next CNA on the shift. I was trained for a with a preceptors that went into each room, introduce the next CNA on duty to the patient and would give the next CNA on duty the report they had on the patient for the day. I was placed with a preceptor for a couple nights and noticed that in the beginning of the shift she would not discuss with the CNA on the previous shift about the patients. She would explain to the CNA that she had them from a couple nights ago and she knew all about them and didn't need report. I asked that she had wrong risks for some patients and she would explain that the charts in the computer were wrong and that some patients were not fall risk or skin bundles. However, the patients were put as fall risk in the charts based on the evaluation from the nurse they were cared for. I was very concerned she might have a fall incident and have incorrect information on the patients. I explained to her that information that was true from a couple days ago can change over night and diagnoses change and order are sometimes put as stat! For example, you could have some go NPO in a matter of minutes if the doctor puts them in schedule for a procedure. She explain she didn't need the report and it would delay her vital rounds. I knew this was wrong even though she was my supervisor. I went up to the charge nurse of floor and explained my concern for the patients. I believe the managers had a discussion with her and I now see that she does bedside report now for every patient on every shift. I always try to make sure she gives me the report throughly.

Tell us about a time when you had a conflict with someone who supervised you, and how you handled it.

On the renal med surg floor when I was on orientation, I was placed with different preceptors who were to supervise and train me to transition to the floor for a couple of weeks. Before and after shift, the CNAs are to give bedside report on the patients to the next CNA on the shift. I was trained for a with a preceptors that went into each room, introduce the next CNA on duty to the patient and would give the next CNA on duty the report they had on the patient for the day. I was placed with a preceptor for a couple nights and noticed that in the beginning of the shift she would not discuss with the CNA on the previous shift about the patients. She would explain to the CNA that she had them from a couple nights ago and she knew all about them and didn't need report. I asked that she had wrong risks for some patients and she would explain that the charts in the computer were wrong and that some patients were not fall risk or skin bundles. However, the patients were put as fall risk in the charts based on the evaluation from the nurse they were cared for. I was very concerned she might have a fall incident and have incorrect information on the patients. I explained to her that information that was true from a couple days ago can change over night and diagnoses change and order are sometimes put as stat! For example, you could have some go NPO in a matter of minutes if the doctor puts them in schedule for a procedure. She explain she didn't need the report and it would delay her vital rounds. I knew this was wrong even though she was my supervisor. I went up to the charge nurse of floor and explained my concern for the patients. I believe the managers had a discussion with her and I now see that she does bedside report now for every patient on every shift. I always try to make sure she gives me the report throughly.

Describe the most stressful work or academic situation you have been in, and tell us how you dealt with it.

One of the most stressful time I had was during my semester at Seton Hill when I had organic chemistry. The material was fast paced and I had to master learning the material visually in a way I have never done before. Additionally, I was working on my husband's visa where he had to go to Baghdad for his interview. Additionally, I had realized I would not be able to complete the masters part of the accelerated program at Seton Hill because my husband would not be able to find a job to support us in the small town this college was located in. The stress was starting to conflict with my academics. However, I was able to plan out the solution. I stayed organized and talked with the professor after class and taught to learn the material visually. I got my A I wanted. After his arrival, I was able to still make good grades in school at MTSU and had my husband learn English. Even if it was in the kitchen learning to read a recipe or by helping him go to ESL classes. He just got his citizenship last month and can have a great job since he knows English very well. I believe with the right plan in place and patience, you can still be able to reach your dreams in America. I told him after his oath ceremony how long we had come and how America gives everyone the opportunity to be successful.

What are your biggest weaknesses as an applicant, and what do you plan to do to correct them?

Put too much on my plate - worry a lot - A) learn to worry about the things in my control and take a step back from the things i cant A) tend to plan things as much as possible so i worry less - terrible at spelling and not the greatest essay writer A) takes me longer than others to write a good essay Terrible with (geographic) directions Can't say no Forget to eat/take breaks Coffee Big heart and work ethic, I sometimes dont allow enough time for myself to decompress a. I am a perfectionist - I constantly remind myself that I'm human and people make mistakes. Also plan ahead to allow extra time to work on projects b. I used to also believe being an introvert was a weakness as well but I have realized it makes me better at relating to people when one-on-one or in small groups c. Keeping emotions to myself - I have made great progress in this area the past couple of years with the stress of school and applying to PA school. I have learned talking with others about my stresses is a great stress-reliever

Biology Club (24)

Raise money that were sent to charity groups that went toward improving the community. Improve the science department by adding science textbooks for students to use in the science rooms. The biology club help its members build strong resumes and encourage student to preform research. 2012-2013

What were some of the issues you foresaw in Iraq?

Talking with the doctors and healthcare committees, I observed that the healthcare system greatly needed to be rebuilt after the invasion in 2003. The ratio of patients to providers is in a position where many people are not able to see a doctor for weeks especially in specialities. The amount of children receiving vaccination is incredibly low. There is no mailing service or emails that people provide their doctors because there are no addresses and the older generation do not the use computers very much. So sending reminders for annual check ups or vaccinations are almost non existent. The physician would offer vaccinations many at times when the family would bring their child in for a disease they had concerns about. I observed that many people would travel outside the country to Turkey for example. I had a lady travel to Turkey after finding she needed a biopsy of her thyroid. People do not have a well grounded trust in the healthcare system and are willing to pay to travel and get care else where. I saw that many surgeries and other major healthcare operations such as labor and delivery there was no post operative care, they would have to risk and come home the same day and risk infection. Many people there make only three hundred dollars a month and a surgery could cost 5000 dollars there and people with cancer would have all of the family members scraping for money for buying chemotherapy shots individually selling for two hundred a shot. The physician I was working with explained that oncology was the main problem for the community. Many a times, the family would not be able to afford the care.

"What is the worst book you have read?"

The Giver - utopia, jonas shows that we need to feel hardships to enjoy the good, love the amount of sacrifice done in the book

Tell us about the role you see the PA playing in the health care system.

The PA profession came around in the 1960s as a answer to help the shortage of physicians. the PA plays a critical role allowing more patients to be seen and filling in the niche between a nurse and a doctor. They are able to help with more patient being seen with less wait and more people to have access to healthcare. with the aging population and high demand for care providers PAs present a provider with a wide variety of skills that can see patients in areas that don't have any care providers and areas of high population like underserved community. Additionally, since the implication of the affordable health care act, This law enacted in 2010 will increase the already huge demand for PAs. This law increases the number of individuals with healthcare and the need for primary care providers increase. PAs do not have residencies and shorter education time creates more PAs and are in a better position to fill the healthcare gap. Additionally, the law covers preventative measures such as vaccinations and primary care annual check ups. PAs are trained as generalists (PANCE exam centered around general medicine) as well that are good fit for the demand. These new insurance policies cover more emergency visits without penalties that will create a high demand for PAs in that field.

Describe the history of the PA profession.

The PA profession evolved in the 1960s when the U.S. was facing a serious shortage and maldistribution of physicians to address the nation's need for primary care services. - Medical corpsmen returning from Vietnam wanted civilian jobs to apply the skills they honed on the battlefield. - To help remedy this, Dr. Eugene A. Stead Jr., MD, of the Duke University Medical Center, put together the first class of PAs in 1965. He selected four Navy Hospital Corpsmen who had received considerable medical training during their military service. - Stead based the curriculum of the PA program on his knowledge of the fast-track training of doctors during World War II. - The medical community helped support the new profession, the AAPA raised as well as NCCPA to sent accreditation standards and certification. - Since then the profession has expanded exponentially and PAs began to close the service demand gap by making services more available, accessible, and affordable.

Memorable time at NHC

The time that sticks with me the most is when we got a homeless gentleman in with bladder cancer recently admitted. He was a veteran and was having a hard time getting situated in life. I noticed he had a the small bag of clothes with one pair of socks, jeans with holes, and a couple shirts was all he had. We all pitched in and the nurses on our floor ended up getting him a couple suitcases full of new clothes and some warm winter clothes as well. I helped him get shaved and showered. In his new clothes he looked like a new man. He was very grateful for everything we did for him. The look on his face when he woke up and found the clothes was priceless. The social worker ended up getting him help with his living situation also. Helping people is why we do this job. I'm very proud of the coworkers on first floor for all pitching in and making a difference in the man's life.

Why UT?

There are several reasons I want to go to UTHSC PA program, and they all have to do with the structure of the learning that takes place here. I've read about many programs and yours seems progressive in its curriculum. The online resources for learning physical examination, for example, show me how hard this program has worked to keep current and to evolve with medical technology. I want to attend a school where what and how I am taught really matter to the faculty. The fact that many of the courses are taught in small group seminars tells me that student interaction and relationship with faculty is a priority. With that, I know that I won't be just a number. I love that as a student I will have the opportunity to put my new knowledge to use right away by working in student-run programs like Clinica Esperanza in downtown Lexington. I've worked at community clinics in Kentucky already, and that emphasis on helping the Latino community is refreshing to me!"

How do you usually deal with stress?

Treating stress is like treating a infection. First steps are prevention. I try to prevent it where I prioritize, stay organized/on top on my schedule and tasks. Then management is key. I will try to manage it by finding its limits, take breaks or refocus. Finally to tackle it- once I have refocused/prioritized, I will tackle tasks one by one until they're done. As healing is through spiriturally as well, when I have stress, I like to mediatate and go for runs to ease my mind where it help tremendously. Think about keeping a task list or journal. Every day there seems like an endless amount of work that needs to be done, which triggers anxiety from the minute we wake up. Write down what you need to do and cross it out when it is completed. At the end of the day, look back at the list and you may be surprised by how much you accomplished. The number of stress management strategies is endless. This is just a snapshot of a few that I have personally researched. While stress in our lives is inevitable, it is not unmanageable. The key is finding what method works for us, to help relieve stress in our lives safely and effectively. Think about keeping a task list or journal. Every day there seems like an endless amount of work that needs to be done, which triggers anxiety from the minute we wake up. Write down what you need to do and cross it out when it is completed. At the end of the day, look back at the list and you may be surprised by how much you accomplished. The number of stress management strategies is endless. This is just a snapshot of a few that I have personally researched. While stress in our lives is inevitable, it is not unmanageable. The key is finding what method works for us, to help relieve stress in our lives safely and effectively.

What is the most important factor between a PA and his/her supervising physician? Why?

Trust and communication. They go hand in hand honestly. If someone lacks communication, how can you trust their decisions and actions.

CVS Health

Under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist, I assisted providing medication, customer service, advice and other health care products to patients. Certified with Board of Pharmacy National with NCCA Accreditation. Trainer for new hires in pharmacy, advanced knowledge of inventory prescription management, and billing of third parties insurances that are government and privately funded. Organizing and evaluation of patient evaluation of patient information, creating telephone Rx in system, and filling prescription, medication distribution such as flu shots, and explaining drug information

Why did you choose to apply to the UTHSC PA program?

What about this program do you fifind unique or appealing? Answer: I admire the program's pledge to help its students become lifelong learners and beneficial society contributors. I believe this program has the necessary resources to help me become a leader as a physician assistant who is committed and a passionate helper whose personal mission is to be able to serve and heal others in the medical field. With limited resources in my childhood as a refugee, I was determined and was able to be academically successful and make positive impact on others. I hope to bring my unique background experiences into the program to increase the diversity. Observations from my achievements and experiences, it is perceivable I will bring my passion to become a PA into the program and be an advocate after. The school location is perfect because it is close to friends and family for resources. I know I would love to live in the Memphis area from my previous vacation experiences in the area. I've heard first-rate comments from previous students about the program's mission. I truly aspire to be part of the physician assistant program at UTHSC because of their admirable perspective on proper healing. I agree with UTHSC's mission that patient care is defined by healing not only through the physiology of the body but in a proper well rounded patient experience as well. Additionally, the specific rotation options and didactic layout creates an environment where the student is has a high potential to be academically successful and have a well rounded experience.

"What was a mistake you made and what did you learn from it?"

When I first started working at Saint Thomas, I had a patient who was staying at the hospital for quite awhile till they had fixed her insurance to send her to rehab. She was incontinent and a skin bundle and used a bariatric bed for that. She was very obese and hard to turn. For a couple weeks, I would turn her for bed therapy and change her brief all by myself because the other staff would be busy with other patients for the majority. My back started hurting very badly and the charge nurse asked why I was in distress after coming from the room. She quickly explained that I should always ask for help even if they are busy. She showed me slide sheets we have in the supply room and that made the job a lot easier to pull her up in the bed as well. I learned that there are ways to work smart and not hard. You do always want to give your patients the best care but also keep an eye out for your health as well.

What are three things you want to change about yourself?

When interacting with a patient, I've come to realize its basically socializing, there are times at work that there some patients that you will connect to right away and you will be in the room for a long time without realizing the time! So I definitely try to keep an eye on the time now and manage my tasks during my shift to allow some extra time to visit and interact with my patients. I can't let my enthusiasm and drive alienate other patients. Additionally another weakness is i would dwell too long on evaluations and criticism, I've come to realize that success is not achieved on the first attempt, in order to learn and improve you must be able to accept and use the criticism as an advantage to fix what is wrong.

Excela Health Hospital Volunteer Pennsylvania (120)

Witnessed examinations with patient and doctor consent. Nurses help show the different equipment used for patient examination and treatment. Help keep rooms clean between patients. Assisted emergency department personnel make treatment kits such as Sexual Assault Evidence Kit (SAEK) and help with patient needs such as bringing water. Read to patients when requested. Assist patients in eating and aid in patient discharge with managing paperwork . 2013

Do you manage your time well?

Yes I can. I have a set of written goals and I prioritize my time so as to accomplish them all in the order of their importance and in a timely manner. Observation from my experiences and academics shows I have had to make a lot of time management and dedication. I keep a task list. Every day there seems like an endless amount of work that needs to be done, which triggers anxiety from the minute we wake up. Write down what you need to do and cross it out when it is completed. At the end of the day, look back at the list and you may be surprised by how much you accomplished. While stress in our lives is inevitable, it is not unmanageable. The key is finding what method works for us, to help relieve stress in our lives safely and effectively.

Do you have a car, where do you live, what is your social support and are they close?

Yes I have a car that I maintain very well. My social support system is strong and have always been there for me. I live with my husband. Im very close to my family and friends. My parents, aunts and uncle live in the Nashville area.

Have you applied to other programs?

Yes I have applied to 7 total. UT Memphis, CBU, Union college, South College, UT Southwestern, USF Morsani but Nashville is my number one choice of school.

Have you ever seen anyone die?

Yes I have watched my grandpa die from suffering a third stroke back in 2009 in Kurdistan, he had severe dementia and was in a coma after the third stroke and died in the hospital. I have also had multiple patients on my nightshift that have pass also. A direct observation of one I had one patient that was in last stages of life from cancer and observed how the body reacted as the body systems shut down one by one. I help the family of the patient by praying and sharing empathy. I believe they finally were at peace, she was holding on to life for her husband and daughter. I accommodated to their grief. Saying things such as I know its hard to watch your wife decline. I explained it was his choice to finally let go and it wasn't their decision persay. As Pa i believe its important not to see these cases as a failure and that your work is done, you should remain available for the patient and family. Then I was able to preform post mortem care and taken her down to the morgue.

Have you done anything to increase your chances of being accepted to the PA program?

Yes, Ive spent many hours shadowing, volunteering, and working in the health care field. I have worked extremely hard to earn a BS degree to get good grades and get my GPA to a competitive level. I have also gotten a job as a CNA that has allowed me to interact with physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioner in a way that isn't possible in other jobs. Furthermore, I have shadowed PAs to confirm my passion for the profession.

If you saw someone stealing medications in the hospital, what would you do?

i would report them to the appropriate authorities. Report immediately to supervisor, and document properly. If its a patient, i would call security. Stealing controlled medications is a criminal offense. Clearly, I could not turn my back and ignore the situation -I would state the facts to my colleague, telling her that she is stealing controlled medication for a friend and that is an illegal and punishable offense. -I would tell her that she is also placing me in a position of liability and that I am not willing to assume that liability for her actions -I would tell her that if she doesn't bring this up to your supervisor, I will

"What was the hardest class you had and how did you overcome it?"

my hardest class was probably organic chemistry. i was in the process of acquiring a visa for my husband to come to america where he had to go to the baghdad embassy to gain his visa. the place was very dangerous at the time. in addition i had started organic chemistry. The class required a different thought process. mastering the different reactions and mechanism was different than other science classes, you couldn't just memorize them! I was able to obtain an A in both semesters of the class because I was able to create a plan to be successful. Staying after class and reaching out to the professor helped tremendously because the professor was able to show different resources such as ball and stick models and simulations online. I was able to master the class by learning visually, i realized the reactions required critical thinking and each had their own preferences similar to how people do. I kept a study schedule and created a study group, where talking it out to others and teaching what I knew created the confidence that i used to study through chapters and achieve my A in the end. Since the class, i know the difference between studying hard vs studying smart. Since then I have been able to take heavy academic load in addition to working by having the skills to manage time and studying efficiently.