1.
My STEP project was a phlebotomy training course. During this course, I attended a once-a-week class devoted to getting hands-on and educational experience with blood drawing.
2.
Completing the phlebotomy training course as part of my STEP Signature Project significantly transformed my understanding of patient care and my assumptions about healthcare professionals. Before the course, I viewed phlebotomy as a primarily technical skill, focused on drawing blood efficiently and accurately. However, through hands-on experience and patient interactions, I realized that phlebotomy is much more than a technical task; it’s an essential part of patient care that requires empathy, communication, and the ability to make patients feel comfortable and respected during vulnerable moments.
This experience shifted my perspective on the healthcare field as a whole. I came to understand that patient care extends beyond the physical procedures—it’s about fostering trust and ensuring that patients feel seen and understood. This realization deepened my appreciation for the human aspect of healthcare and highlighted the importance of compassion in every patient interaction.
3.
The hands-on component of the phlebotomy training course played a crucial role in transforming my view of patient care. From the very first time I had to draw blood from a real person, I realized how much trust is required from both sides. As a student, I was nervous about performing the procedure correctly, but I quickly learned that my confidence and calm demeanor were essential in reassuring the patient. This was particularly challenging when working with newly met strangers who had no reason to trust me beyond the professionalism I could demonstrate in that moment.
Each interaction required me to not only focus on the technical aspect of the procedure but also on building a quick rapport with the patient. I found myself developing communication skills that went beyond the basics, like asking about the patient’s comfort or explaining the procedure in a way that was clear and calming. These interactions taught me the importance of empathy and understanding, as each patient had different levels of anxiety and pain tolerance. I had to adjust my approach for each individual, which deepened my understanding of the personalized nature of patient care.
One particularly impactful experience was when I successfully drew blood from a patient who had a deep fear of needles. I had to rely heavily on the interpersonal skills I had been developing—speaking calmly, offering reassurance, and being patient. When the procedure was over, the patient expressed gratitude not just for a painless experience, but for feeling genuinely cared for. This encounter reinforced the idea that my role as a phlebotomist was not just to perform a task, but to be a caregiver who could ease someone’s fears and make their experience a little less daunting.
These experiences collectively reshaped my understanding of what it means to be involved in healthcare. I realized that the technical skills, while important, are only part of the equation. The ability to connect with patients, to gain their trust in a short amount of time, and to make them feel cared for is equally vital. This transformation in my perspective has had a lasting impact, deepening my commitment to pursuing a career in healthcare with a focus on compassionate, patient-centered care.
4.
This transformation is particularly significant for my pre-medical journey because it has provided me with a deeper understanding of the human side of medicine. While the academic rigor of pre-med courses is essential, this experience reminded me that the core of healthcare is about connecting with patients and earning their trust. Understanding the importance of compassionate care has reinforced my commitment to becoming a physician who not only excels in medical knowledge but also prioritizes the well-being and emotional needs of patients.
This shift in perspective aligns closely with my professional goals of becoming a doctor who is both skilled and empathetic. It has also influenced how I approach my studies, as I now see the material I’m learning not just as information to memorize, but as knowledge that will one day help me to care for real people with unique fears, hopes, and experiences. This experience has solidified my dedication to pursuing a career in medicine where I can make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives by combining technical expertise with genuine compassion.
