Navigating the Pros and Cons of Externships in Pediatric Offices for Medical Assistant Students

As aspiring healthcare professionals, medical assistant students often have diverse career aspirations, and one area that sparks considerable interest is pediatrics. The opportunity to work with children and contribute to their well-being is undoubtedly rewarding. However, it is important for students to be aware of the unique challenges they may encounter during their externship in a pediatric office. In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of such externships and shed light on the unpredictable nature of working with children.

Pros of Externships in Pediatric Offices:

1. Exposure to Pediatric-Specific Skills: Externships in pediatric offices provide students with invaluable exposure to the specialized skills required to care for young patients. From administering vaccinations and measuring vital signs to assisting with child-friendly procedures, students gain hands-on experience in delivering healthcare tailored to the unique needs of children.

2. Building Rapport with Young Patients: Working in a pediatric setting allows medical assistant students to develop their interpersonal skills and build meaningful connections with young patients. This experience fosters empathy, patience, and the ability to communicate effectively with children and their parents or guardians—a vital skill set for any healthcare professional.

3. Comprehensive Learning Opportunities: Pediatric externships offer students a wide range of learning opportunities. They get to witness and assist in various pediatric medical procedures, such as suturing wounds, performing ear exams, or conducting developmental screenings. This exposure helps students gain confidence and enhances their clinical competence in pediatric care.

4. Emotional Rewards: Caring for children can be incredibly rewarding and heartwarming. Medical assistant students in pediatric offices often have the chance to witness the positive impact they can make on a child's health and well-being. The joy of seeing a child's smile or witnessing their recovery can serve as a powerful motivator for those considering a career in pediatrics.

Cons of Externships in Pediatric Offices:

1. Unpredictable Nature of Children: While working with children can be rewarding, it is essential to acknowledge the challenges associated with their unpredictable behavior. Children may exhibit fear, anxiety, or resistance during medical procedures, making it harder to perform tasks efficiently. Students need to remain patient, adaptable, and resilient in the face of such circumstances.

2. Emotional Demands: Caring for sick or injured children can be emotionally taxing for medical assistant students. Witnessing the pain and distress experienced by young patients can take an emotional toll. Students must develop coping strategies to manage their own emotions while providing support to children and their families.

3. Time and Stress Management: Working in a pediatric office often involves managing multiple patients simultaneously, each with their own set of needs and priorities. This fast-paced environment can be stressful for students who are still learning to juggle multiple tasks and prioritize effectively. Developing time management skills and maintaining composure under pressure are crucial for success.

4. Exposure to Difficult Situations: Pediatric offices occasionally encounter challenging situations, such as dealing with critically ill children or discussing sensitive topics with parents. Externship students may find it challenging to navigate these difficult situations.