Mount Pleasant High School seniors in the Health Science Practicum II-Medical Assistant class recently demonstrated their intramuscular injection skills using syringes and oranges. Successfully performing the skill will allow them to give injections at field sites including Titus Regional Medical Center and other medical sites in Mount Pleasant during their clinical rotations.

In addition to proper technique for intramuscular injections, these fourth-year students have been assessed on capillary puncture (commonly known as finger sticks), nasal swabbing for flu and covid testing, throat swabbing for strep testing, medication dosing, intradermal injections (commonly used for tuberculin or TB skin testing, allergy testing, and local anesthetics), and, most recently, obtaining blood samples via venipuncture. They have also learned to take vital signs, room patients, and prepare areas for examinations by the doctor.

“To be checked-off on a particular skill, the students must maintain professionalism and show complete competency with the skill including obtaining all supplies needed and being aware of safety procedures for the patient and themselves,” said Medical Assistant instructor, Amanda Hutchings. “The students learn the methodology behind why we perform procedures not just how to complete them. This allows for greater understanding and aids in patient education. We are fortunate to have our community healthcare workers supervise our students to allow real-world experiences.”

After completing the curriculum, Medical Assistant students will sit for their credentialling exam in April of 2024 to become Certified Clinical Medical Assistants and graduate in May.

Photos:

1: Emilee Miles successfully performs an intramuscular injection

2: Hope Powell practices her injection skills

3: Arely Lopez prepares to properly clean the area