Medicine Clerkship Learning Objectives


Note: K, S, and A, with corresponding numbers in parentheses (e.g., K1, S2, A4), refer to Weill Cornell Medical College’s Educational Objectives of the program leading to the MD degree found at http://weill.cornell.edu/education/curriculum/edu_obj.html.


By the end of the course, the student should be able to:

    Knowledge:

  1. K5, K6, K7, K8 Describe the pathophysiology, etiology, clinical features, diagnosis, management, and prognosis of specific diseases commonly treated on an internal medicine service.

  2. K6 Explain the diagnostic approach to common presenting symptoms and signs in Internal Medicine.

  3. K12 Identify characteristics of a functioning medical team.


  4. Skills:

  5. S4, S5 Perform a complete and focused history and physical examination on patients hospitalized for medical illnesses.

  6. S11 Write a complete admission note, including history, physical exam, basic laboratory data, summary of case, assessment, and recommendations for diagnostic tests and therapy.

  7. S11 Write complete and accurate daily progress notes.

  8. S1, S8 Develop the problem list, differential diagnosis, diagnostic strategy, and management plan for common medical problems.

  9. S7 Interpret common laboratory and diagnostic tests.

  10. S1, S7, S8, S9 Function as a member of the medical team.

  11. S11 Manage the most common chronic medical diseases and risk factors in an ambulatory setting (e.g., hypertension, diabetes, lipid disorders, coronary disease, asthma/COPD, thyroid disease, osteoporosis).

  12. S11, S12 Demonstrate clear and organized communication and interpersonal skills during patient interactions, during oral case presentations, in case write- ups, and in admission and progress notes.


  13. Attitudes:

  14. A1, A2, A3 Demonstrate sensitivity to patients’ medical and psychosocial needs, including ethical patient care and confidentiality.

  15. A4 Demonstrate honesty and integrity in all interactions and activities with patients, families, medical colleagues and others.

  16. A6 Maintain a professional demeanor in his/her work, including demonstrating an attitude that values timely attendance, punctuality, reliability, and accountability in the performance of his/her duties.

  17. A5 Display respect for members of the health-care team.


How Learning Objectives are Assessed
Students are assessed according to the course objectives in knowledge, skills, and professionalism.

Components for self-assessment (not a part of the grade) include a mid-course Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE); Direct Observation of Clinical Skills (DOCS) sessions; and a self-assessment exam.

Components considered in grading include Tutor evaluation; Clinical Supervisor evaluation (attendings, fellows, residents); and a final written examination.

Please refer to the course syllabus for more specific details on grading.

 
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