Volunteering at Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (SSCHRC) in India was an incredible opportunity, made possible by their meticulously designed and highly informative website. The step-by-step application process was clear and well laid out, making it easy for me to navigate and secure this experience. As I prepared for my journey, my anticipation grew, and the actual experience surpassed my expectations. Dr. B. S. Srinath (Head of the Institution, Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital and Research Centre), Dr. S. Pruthvish (Director, Academics and Training), and Dr. Sanchitha Chandar (Chief Operating Officer - SSNCCPR) prepared a schedule with daily programs, which they briefed me about. They were very forthcoming when approached with any inquiries.
One of the first things that struck me about SSCHRC was its cleanliness. Compared to other hospitals I have seen in India, this one stood out for its immaculate environment. The hospital had staff members constantly maintaining the cleanliness of high-traffic areas, ensuring a hygienic environment. This attention to cleanliness is crucial in any hospital, more so in a cancer hospital, where patients are at high risk for contracting infections. It reflects the hospital's commitment to promoting good health and safety practices. The kindness and professionalism of the staff were equally impressive. They welcomed me warmly and allowed me to shadow them, offering invaluable insights into their work. The willingness of the doctors and nurses to teach me about their procedures and responsibilities was a highlight of my internship, making the experience both educational and enriching.
My journey began at the registration desk, where I assisted new patients in filling out their forms. This task, at times, presented challenges as some patients struggled with understanding the form requirements. Language barriers also added a layer of complexity, but these interactions taught me patience and effective communication skills.
In the daycare unit, Nurse Diya played a crucial role in my learning. She demonstrated how to administer IVs, mix and administer chemotherapy drugs, set up the IV drip machine, and read patient charts to determine the correct medications and dosages. This hands-on experience was highly informative and gave me a deeper appreciation for the meticulous nature of nursing care.
My time in the Medical Out-Patient Department (OPD) involved directing patients to various oncology services offered by the hospital. The hospital’s extensive range of services necessitated several tours to familiarize myself with its layout, underscoring the institution's vastness.
In the general ward, Dr. D. V. Meghashree provided an in-depth look at hospital operations. Her explanations about the essential elements of a well-functioning hospital and the nuances of her rounds were eye-opening. Comparing these aspects to hospital life in the USA highlighted both similarities and differences, enhancing my understanding of global healthcare practices.
Finally, my stint in the endocrinology department under Dr. Santosh H. S. was equally enlightening. The nurses taught me to manually read blood pressure and demonstrated the initial patient assessment procedures, including taking height, weight, and blood pressure measurements. This foundational knowledge is crucial for any healthcare professional, and I am grateful for the thorough instruction I received.
I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to volunteer at SSCHRC. This unique experience has broadened my perspective on healthcare and reinforced my passion for the field. The lessons learned and skills acquired are exceedingly valuable. I encourage other students to seek out similar opportunities. This internship has not only enriched my educational journey but also my personal growth, and I am thankful to everyone who made this experience possible. The kindness, patience, and expertise of those who guided me have left a lasting impact on my future career in healthcare.
I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Dr. B. S. Srinath, Dr. S. Pruthvish and Dr. Sanchitha Chandar, Their prior planning and guidance made this experience possible and incredibly enriching. I also want to thank the doctors and staff who played a significant role during my internship, including Nurse Revathi, Dr. Meghashree, Dr. Santosh, Nurse Diya, and the numerous other staff members who took the time to teach and guide me.
