Currently, I'm handling 4th year students to the OR, being a 4th year students my expectations is different compared to lower levels because I do believe this is the time that suppose to be when it comes to skills and knowledge at their level should be intact meaning when it comes to self confidence in assisting in the operation, however, sadly it is not the way it should be. Still you need to supervise them as if it is their first time to be in the OR. The advantage in the special area like OR, the number of students that you need to supervise, you can focus to each students skills and the learning environment is really hands on. The disadvantages are if there are a lot of cases at the same time, for example there are more than 2 or 3 theater room and minor room, you can can't reaaly focus from one students to another plus if there are patients in the PACU that you need to attend to as well, in this scenario Iam glad that I can delegate or ask the staff nurses to supervise as well the students but in cases where in the hospital is under staff also, they rely to us as well as a workforce. In the clinical area it is not merely doing your job as a facilitator of learning for the students, you also need to practice your communications skills and "pakikisama" attitude if not, your duty will not be worthwhile meaning you will not achieve your goals and objectives.
In reply to Rainier Del Rosario
Re: Clinical Area: Advantages and Disadvantages
by David Paul Ramos -
Hi Sir! Your reflection brings to light the complex and multifaceted role of a clinical instructor, especially in a specialized and high-intensity area like the Operating Room. Your expectations for 4th year students are well-founded at this stage, we anticipate a higher level of competence and independence. However, your experience shows that not all students progress at the same rate, and even senior students may need foundational support and close supervision.
You also highlighted an important reality: the clinical instructor is not only an educator but often becomes part of the hospital workforce, especially when staff shortages arise. Balancing teaching responsibilities with operational demands, while maintaining patient safety and ensuring meaningful student learning, is indeed a challenging task.
Your emphasis on communication and pakikisama is particularly valuable. Clinical teaching doesn’t happen in isolation—it requires collaboration, diplomacy, and mutual respect within the healthcare team. Your ability to adapt, delegate, and build relationships makes a significant difference not just in student outcomes, but also in fostering a supportive and effective learning environment. It’s a reminder that in the OR, both technical skill and emotional intelligence are essential for success as a clinical educator.
You also highlighted an important reality: the clinical instructor is not only an educator but often becomes part of the hospital workforce, especially when staff shortages arise. Balancing teaching responsibilities with operational demands, while maintaining patient safety and ensuring meaningful student learning, is indeed a challenging task.
Your emphasis on communication and pakikisama is particularly valuable. Clinical teaching doesn’t happen in isolation—it requires collaboration, diplomacy, and mutual respect within the healthcare team. Your ability to adapt, delegate, and build relationships makes a significant difference not just in student outcomes, but also in fostering a supportive and effective learning environment. It’s a reminder that in the OR, both technical skill and emotional intelligence are essential for success as a clinical educator.