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Second week of Elective Posting at Hezzy Beauty Clinic Located in Tasikmalaya, West Java, Indonesia

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Second week of Elective Posting at Hezzy Beauty Clinic Located in Tasikmalaya, West Java, Indonesia

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Name : Marsha Nurhaliza

Matrix No. A185414

Date : 18/08/2025-22/08/2025

How is your progress?
In my second week, I felt that I was settling into the rhythm of the clinic and becoming more comfortable with both the environment and the procedures. On Day 1, I was introduced to the Tasik branch and had the chance to observe how the staff educated patients before their treatments. Even though I had already seen this in Banjar, it felt different here. The clinic atmosphere was unique, and I noticed how the team made patients feel at ease through simple explanations and a welcoming attitude. It reminded me that good communication really sets the tone for any procedure.

On Day 2, I observed mesolipo injections. At first glance, it seemed straightforward—just small injections to dissolve fat—but the more I watched, the more I understood how much anatomical knowledge is required. Each injection point has to be carefully considered to make sure it’s effective and safe. I also noticed how patients sometimes came in with very high expectations, and the doctor took time to explain realistic outcomes.

Day 3 was one of the highlights of the week, as I observed filler procedures. Watching the doctor work was fascinating—the tiniest adjustment in angle or volume could change the whole result. I realized fillers are not just about filling spaces but about restoring harmony and balance in the face. It truly felt like a blend of science and art, and it made me admire the precision required in this field.

On Day 4, I learned about chemical peeling. At first it seemed simple, like just applying a solution on the skin, but I soon realized how carefully doctors need to choose the right chemical and concentration based on each patient’s skin type and condition. I also learned that what comes after the procedure is just as important—patients need to follow aftercare instructions carefully because the skin becomes sensitive and vulnerable.

Finally, on Day 5, I got to observe and learn about laser treatments. This was very technical but extremely interesting. The doctor explained how different wavelengths target different skin concerns, and how safety is always the first priority—goggles for everyone in the room, precise settings, and proper technique. It made me realize how powerful lasers can be, but also how much responsibility comes with using them.

Overall, my progress this week felt more solid. Compared to Week 1, I was less hesitant and more confident in asking questions. I also started to connect the dots between theory and practice, which made me feel like I was truly learning, not just watching.

Points to remember from Week 2

Mesolipo: anatomy really matters.

Filler: aesthetics combines science and art.

Peeling: every patient needs a tailored approach.

Laser: safety and precision are non-negotiable.

My feelings and thoughts
I felt more confident this week compared to my first week. The environment in Tasik felt a little different, but I quickly adjusted and enjoyed observing new procedures. Fillers and lasers especially made me excited, because they showed me how creative yet precise aesthetic practice can be. I also realized I’m starting to appreciate the combination of science and artistry in this field more and more.

One good thing from what I did that I can practice now
I noticed how important communication is. Every doctor I observed made sure to explain procedures clearly and manage patients’ expectations. That’s something I can start practicing now, even outside of aesthetics—being clear, empathetic, and patient when speaking with others.

Difficulties or concerns
Some procedures, like mesolipo and lasers, were harder to fully understand because they involved new products and machines I’m not familiar with yet. Sometimes I worried whether I could remember all the little details that make each procedure safe and effective.

How I coped
I coped by asking questions when I didn’t understand, and by reviewing the procedures afterwards in my own time. Comparing what I learned in Tasik with my experiences in Banjar also helped me connect the dots and remember things better.

My plan for next week
In the coming week, I want to focus more on understanding the reasoning behind choosing treatments for different patients. I'll be focus of reguler patient instead of aesthetic clinic patient with the program that we do together.

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First Week of Cardiology Elective Posting at Bandung Heart Clinic, Indonesia

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First Week of Cardiology Elective Posting at Bandung Heart Clinic, Indonesia

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Name: Aisyah Tsabita Izzatul Jannah

Matrix Number: A185539

21/08/2025– 29/08/2025

What have I done?

Our elective posting started with an introduction session with dr. Agus Thosin and the staff. We also had a clinic tour to familiarize ourselves with the environment and facilities.

Throughout this week, we mostly observed how doctor and nurses conducted history taking with cardiovascular patients. Occasionally, we participated in history taking under the supervision of the nurses. We also observed and learned about ECG procedures and interpretation. From what I remember there were plenty of atrial fibrillation cases, extrasystoles on ECG, ischaemia (which noticed during treadmill procedure), and heart failure. There was also a case of chronic venous insufficiency, in which patient's limb has turned black in colour with sensory loss.

Here, in the clinic, there are mostly patients with chronic cases and comorbidities, so it is really important to ask deeper about their lifestyles and compliance to medications. Many patients have done invasive procedures in a hospital such as angioplasty, Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) and many more.

We always end the day with a discussion session with our supervisor, dr. Agus Thosin, in which we reviewed interesting cases and discussed clinical reasoning, interventions, related to many cardiology cases.

Points to remember from week 1

History taking is the most important part of CVS examination

Key symptoms to ask about for CVS is chest pain/discomfort, palpitations, and dyspnea

To pay attention in patient's heart rate and ST changes during treadmill, and highlight some extrasystoles

Many cardiovascular patients will come with a complaint of "gastric problem", so we must dig deeper into history taking to distinguish between gastrointestinal and cardiological causes

The variation in cardiovascular cases between outpatient clinics and hospitals

Feelings & thoughts

I truly felt very thrilled when I found out we were able to do a cardiovascular EP since I have always been interested in said topic. It was definitely a fun and warm experience as the environment too was very welcoming. I felt comfortable interacting with the medical staff and participating in discussions.

Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

There was honestly not many things I struggled with since everyone was being super helpful except for one thing. Since it was in Bandung and every regions in Indonesia will sometimes use a different traditional language (in this case it happened to be Sundanese) which I'm not very fluent in, so I would alter my words and find other way to explain my question/explanation. I also asked for the nurses to help for the clarification.

2 words to describe elective posting so far

Informative and engaging

My plan for next week

I plan to observe more detailed physical examinations, learn more about ECG interpretation, and if possible, assist in non-invasive procedures under supervision

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Second week of Elective Posting at Hezzy Beauty Clinic Located in Tasikmalaya, West Java, Indonesia 

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Second week of Elective Posting at Hezzy Beauty Clinic Located in Tasikmalaya, West Java, Indonesia 

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Name: Jesica Dwi Alfina
Matrix No: A185510
Date: 18/08/2025 - 22/08/2025

• What have you done?

As I mentioned before, my friends and I continued our elective posting at the Tasikmalaya branch clinic, which is about 40 km from Banjar. The distance is not too far, similar to KL–Putrajaya, so we went there by driving. We started the elective on Monday (18/08/2025).

On the first day, we drove to Tasikmalaya and met the doctor at the clinic. We were introduced again to the clinic, starting from the treatment rooms, and also reminded about some of the equipment that would be used later. On that day, the doctor taught us about new treatments that we had not observed before, one of them was facial laser treatment.

On the second day, we observed mesolipo treatment. Mesolipo is a non-surgical cosmetic treatment where a solution containing vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and other substances is injected into the fat layer of the skin at targeted areas such as the face, stomach, thighs, or arms. On this occasion, we only observed mesolipo on the jawline and face area.

On the third day, we observed filler treatment. Fillers are substances injected into the skin to restore volume, reduce wrinkles, and enhance facial features. The most common type is hyaluronic acid, which is a natural substance found in the body. Of course, we only observed since we do not have a license to perform this. The doctor injected hyaluronic acid into the jawline, especially in the chin area.

On the fourth day, we observed peeling treatment. This treatment was actually the most familiar for me since I had done it before, but it still felt different to directly observe how the procedure was performed on a patient.

On the last day of the second week, we observed and also had the opportunity to try laser treatment. As we already learned before, there are different types of laser shots depending on the purpose (for pigmentation, tattoo removal, or facial rejuvenation) — and each has its own settings. On that day, we tried the pigmentation laser, which was such an exciting and interesting first-time experience. To release the laser beam onto the targeted area, we had to press a foot pedal, which gave similar vibes to surgeons using cautery in operations where they also need to press a pedal to activate the device.

Besides medical activities, we also took some time to refresh by trying traditional foods in Tasikmalaya. We tried the famous bakso cuanki from Tasikmalaya, another type of beef meatball soup, and also traditional Sundanese food from West Java aka Ayam Goreng Serundeng with Sambal Terasi Dadakan (Fried Chicken with Serundeng and Freshly Shrimp Paste Chili Sauce). All of them were so good and really tempting whenever I remember them again.

• Points to remember from Week 2!

1. Every aesthetic treatment has potential risks and side effects, but most are generally safe. Even if side effects occur, they are usually not severe.

2. The results of treatments are not instant, especially for laser procedures. For pigmentation, treatment usually needs 4–5 sessions to see results, while tattoo removal requires even more sessions depending on the depth of the ink.

3. For non-surgical aesthetic treatments, the longevity of results varies among individuals. Good results require consistent and routine care.

4. It is important for patients to always have realistic expectations about the outcome of every aesthetic treatment.

• Your feelings and thoughts

I can’t believe two weeks of my elective posting at the aesthetic clinic have already passed. This week we joined the elective at the Tasikmalaya branch clinic. I still feel very happy and excited. I think there are still many things I need to learn, especially about treatments that are not very familiar to me. Overall, everything went smoothly and well.

• Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

I did not face any significant difficulties this week. I only felt a little unfamiliar with some procedures, but that is part of the learning process.

• 2 words to describe elective posting progress so far

Exciting and Insightful

• Your plan for next week (Week 3)

At first, we only planned to do 2 weeks of elective posting, but there is an opportunity to join the clinic’s monthly routine program, which includes a free medical service and some treatments that we can still observe. I am excited to join the activities for Week 3.

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Second week of Elective Posting at Hezzy Beauty Clinic Located in Tasikmalaya, West Java, Indonesia 

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Second week of Elective Posting at Hezzy Beauty Clinic Located in Tasikmalaya, West Java, Indonesia 

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1. Your name, Matrix Number, Date

Name : Dina Athika Ramadhani

Matrix : A185413

Date : 18/8/2025 - 22/8/2025

2. How is Your progress ?

At the beginning of week 2, i continued my elective posting in West Java, this time in Tasikmalaya. Compared to Banjar, the clinic here had a slightly different setting, which gave me broader exposure to aesthetic practices in Indonesia.

During the second week of my elective posting, I felt significantly better in terms of comprehension and confidence, compared to Week 1. During the first day, we were oriented to several new procedures that we would be working on for the remainder of the week. These included mesolipo, filler injections, facials, chemical peeling, and the proper orientation on how to use a laser machine safely for different conditions of the skin. This orientation was a good overview and prepared me for the rest of the days.

Day 2 was spent on mesolipo. I observed several patients undergoing this procedure, which is regularly performed for the reduction of fat in targeted areas. I was curious about observing how the injections were given, the factors in dosing, and how the evaluation of patients was carried out before treatment was started.

Day 3 was mainly about filler injections. We observed how fillers were used to restore volume and enhance facial beauty. The therapist elaborated on the different fillers, injection methods, and how to prevent complications. This really opened my eyes to the precision and art that goes into aesthetic practice.

Day 4 was spent in facial procedures and chemical peeling. I learned how peeling agents of different types were selected based on the skin type and problems of the patient. It was beneficial to observe how these procedures were performed carefully to avoid irritation and achieve the best results.

Finally, on Day 5, we received training on laser therapy for melasma and pigmentation. This was especially unforgettable for me as it was my first ever hands-on experience in using a laser on a melasma patient. With very close supervision, I was shown how to adjust the settings, maintain proper technique, and ensure patient safety throughout the procedure.

Overall, Week 2 was a huge leap forward in my progress. I moved from just observing to performing my first supervised hands-on procedure. This gave me a much stronger sense of confidence and willingness to learn and develop my clinical skills in aesthetic medicine.

3. Points to remember from week 2?

In Week 2, I learned that all treatments for aesthetics do have benefits and possible side effects. For example, mesolipo can reduce fat but cause swelling or bruising. Fillers are effective in re-fillering volume but must be carried out with care so as not to cause problems like lumps or, very rarely, vascular problems. Facials and chemical peels improve skin texture and color but may result in redness, peeling, or sensitivity if left unchecked. My first hands-on laser experience for melasma also made me realize that, although effective, lasers pose risks such as temporary redness or reversible changes in pigmentation. This week taught me generally that patient safety, proper technique, and clear aftercare instructions are as necessary as the procedure.

4. Your feeling and thoughts

I was nervous and also excited, especially when I first gained hands-on experience with the laser treatment. At first, I worried that I would mess it up, but with the guidance of the therapist, I slowly gained confidence. In contrast to what I was expecting, viewing newer treatments like mesolipo, fillers, facials, and chemical peels also helped me realize how wide and extensive the arena of aesthetic medicine is. What I was most hit with was how much communication and patient safety depend on every step. This week made me feel more energized to just keep learning, and it made me feel good about myself because I could see I was improving from the first week.

5. ONE good thing from what you did that you can practice now?

the ability to be calm and watchful while performing a procedure. On my first hands-on experience with the laser, I learned the importance of ensuring patient safety, inputting the parameters properly, and following the correct technique step by step.

6. Any difficulties/ concerns ? How did you cope ?

one of the challenges I faced was communicating with patients who most of the time spoke Sundanese. At first, it made me feel a bit left out since I could not understand what they were saying. However, I tried to accommodate by just listening carefully to non-verbal cues, asking my partner to explain, and gradually picking up some of the local words to make patients feel more connected. The second problem was the lack of confidence that I had when I was testing new procedures like the laser, thinking that I would get it wrong. To solve this problem, I kept reminding myself that I was in the learning process, observed keenly, and took it step by step. All these problems turned out to make me more flexible and confident when facing new challenges.

7. Your plan for next week (week 3) ?

My plan with my teammates for next week is we will do free consultations and simple health check up for the communities, but we limit the people which is only 15 individuals who will get free doctor consultations, treatment, medications, and simple health check up which was conducted at Hezzy beauty clinic in Tasikmalaya, west java, Indonesia.

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Week 2 of General Surgery in Mater Dei Hospital, Malta

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Week 2 of General Surgery in Mater Dei Hospital, Malta

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1. Your name, matric number, date

Thon Guan Lin

A194921

17/8/2025

2. How is your progress?

This week, I repeated almost the same routine as last week, in which I continued to follow my supervisor’s ward rounds in the morning. During the ward rounds, we did the same things as before: the supervisor examined all the pre-op and post-op patients assigned to him in order to monitor their condition and update their management.

During the round, I was able to see one very rare case—an appendix tumour—which my supervisor told me is an uncommon disease. The patient is receiving peritoneal chemotherapy as treatment for the appendix tumour, but unfortunately, he developed bowel obstruction and needed to be admitted for monitoring. Other cases I encountered during the ward rounds included cellulitis and painless jaundice.

Apart from ward rounds, I also joined the outpatient clinic this week, where I saw various cases. One case I remember was of a woman who had synchronous tumours in both her rectum and liver; she required a lower anterior resection and a hepatectomy. I also observed how my supervisor comforted patients after breaking bad news or when they felt sad and miserable. Moreover, I could clearly see the trust that patients placed in my supervisor, which showed me that he is truly a very good doctor.

There was also an endoscopy day on Thursday. Unfortunately, I was still not able to observe any surgeries this week, because my supervisor usually operates on Fridays, and Friday was a public holiday this week.

In addition to these routines, the organizing committee, SCOME, held a basic suturing workshop, which also included exchange students. I registered for it and was able to improve my suturing skills. This is something I rarely experience in Malaysia since I usually do not participate in surgical events there. A doctor guided us during the workshop, explaining the importance of suturing and the complications that can occur if it is not done properly.

Outside of academics, I visited Valletta, the capital city of Malta, with my roommate at night. It was very beautiful, decorated with lights, and had a lively atmosphere with many bars where people were singing. The vibe was very different compared to the daytime.

There were also a few social programs this week. One of the most fun and interesting events was the National Food and Drink Party, organized by the poolside, where each of us had to bring our own national food to share with others. I brought traditional food from Melaka, including dodol and some biscuits, which received very good responses. I also had the chance to try traditional foods from Poland, Malta, France, the Czech Republic, and more. I was able to taste many types of alcohol from different countries as well. The event was very fun, with many people swimming in the pool and dancing at the poolside.

Besides the NFDP, I also joined the Feast of Malta, a vibrant, week-long celebration held in each village to honor its patron saint. These festivities are a unique blend of religious observances and community gatherings, featuring processions, music, fireworks, and delicious food.

3. Points to remember from week 2!

The first point to remember is the skill of suturing, as this was my very first time learning how to suture. I also learned the importance of proper suturing and the possible complications if it is not done well.

The second point to remember is the experience during the National Food and Drink Party (NFDP). The atmosphere was very lively, and I really enjoyed tasting food and drinks from other countries. I also had fun dancing with the other participants.

The third point to remember is how to comfort patients when they are sad or after receiving bad news.

4. Your feelings & thoughts

I feel very happy and more at home here, as if I am becoming a part of Malta. I have already learned a lot about the culture, and I can even go to some places without using Google Maps. Besides, my relationships with other people are also improving through the various social programs, even though I am usually very introverted. Everyone here has been very nice.

I also felt sad and sympathetic during the outpatient clinic, as I could sense the patients’ sadness and frustration after receiving bad news, as well as their worries about the future. As an exchange medical student, I could not offer them anything concrete, but what I could do was patiently listen to their problems and try to understand their concerns.

I also feel more relaxed here, as the people are very calm, laid-back, and kind. This has helped me to calm myself down as well, which is different from back in Malaysia where I usually feel more stressed.

Finally, I am also very happy because I had my first jump into the beautiful blue sea in Malta.

5. ONE good thing from what you did that you can practice now!

One good thing I gained and can start practising now is suturing. I have learned the correct technique, so I can buy a suturing kit and practise during my free time to sharpen my skill.

6. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

One of the difficulties I faced was not knowing the correct way to suture during the suturing workshop. I asked for guidance from the doctor and also from my friend, who is more experienced than me, to teach me.

Another problem is still the language barrier, as I always need to ask my supervisor for an explanation in English after he consults patients in Maltese.

7. Your plan for next week (Week 3)

My plan for next week is to finally see my first surgery in Malta, as I was not able to observe any during the first two weeks. I also plan to continue following the ward rounds, outpatient clinics, and endoscopy sessions to see more cases and learn new things.

In addition, I will keep joining the social programs to build closer relationships with other incoming students and to get to know Malta better. I am especially looking forward to visiting Ħaġar Qim, which is one of the most ancient religious sites on Earth.

Lastly, since my roommate will not be around for most of the day next week, I am also planning some solo activities so that I can enjoy my own sweet time.

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Week 2 of HPB discipline under general surgery in Princess Alexandra Hospital 

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Week 2 of HPB discipline under general surgery in Princess Alexandra Hospital 

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1. Your name, matric number, date

Lau Ting Ting

A195864

11/8/2025-15/8/2025

2. How is your progress?

I attached the HPB clinic this week, the doctor I attached was Dr Nick Butler, a Hepatobiliary surgeon. He will briefly told me the patient’s history before the patient come in and answer my questions patiently. In the clinic, I was amazed by the interpreter service provided by the hospital at no cost for those who don’t speak English. The things I spotted which is different from UKM is that they don’t use number that showed at the waiting area to call patient instead the doctors will go the waiting area to call the patient to come in the clinic. I also observed some procedures like robot assist laparoscopic cholecystectomy, liver resection and laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

On the Wednesday which is the public holiday in Brisbane, I went to Ekka, the annual agricultural show of Queensland. It consisted of a large theme park, farm animal park to experience shearing a sheep, horse riding competition, dog and cat shows. There was also a large food festival which consisted of a variety of dishes.

3. Points to remember from week 2!

Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) is a benign pancreatic cyst that can develop into cancer.

Choledochal cyst (CC) or biliary cyst is a congenital or acquired anomaly caused dilatation of the biliary tree.

4. Your feelings & thoughts

I appreciated Dr Butler patient teaching style. I attended Ekka on a public holiday, experiencing local culture through animal shows and food festivals. It was an enriching blend of clinical and cultural learning.

5. ONE good thing from what you did that you can practice now!

I learned that communication is very important in order to convey the right information to the patient. Hence, I will continue to learn how to communicate with patient.

6. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

I still couldn’t understand the Aussie slang. I cope it by requesting the doctors to repeat what they say.

7. Your plan for next week (Week 3)

I will continue to go to the hospital to learn and observe.

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Week 2 Of General Surgery In St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital, Brisbane, Australia 

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Week 2 Of General Surgery In St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital, Brisbane, Australia 

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1. Your name, matric number, date

Khor Tze Quan, A192355, 11/8- 15/8

2. How is your progress?

I got to observed mostly urological procedures this week, 3 of them were Robotics Assisted Radical Prostatectomy. I felt excited as it was my first time observing operating procedure that had robotics involvement. The robot is called Da Vinci Xi, and the hospital has 2 of it. I consists of multiple robotic arms which will be controlled by a surgeon via a remote console (top left picture)- how cool was that!

I also got to observe transperineal tissue biopsy using a BK Spectro machine (top right), a diagnostic procedure used to take small tissue samples from the prostate gland to check for prostate cancer, and 2 laparoscopic cholecystectomy procedures. The surgeons I had shadowed from the procedures I had mentioned above did show me some of the organs via the screen as well.

On Wednesday, I was not given any time schedule as it was a public holiday- the Royal Queensland Show, also know as Ekka. I went to the event and it was super crowded, it consisted of a large theme park, farm animal park to experience shearing a sheep, horse riding competition, dog and cat shows! There was also a large food festival which consisted of a variety of dishes from different cultures around the world. And not to mention to get their signature strawberry sundae which only can be found here.

3. Points to remember from week 2!

Robotics Assisted Radical Prostatectomy involves the removal of not just the prostate gland, and also the seminal vesicles, and sometimes nearby lymph nodes.

There will be an assistant surgeon or bedside assistant which will be needed for instrument support, safety and troubleshooting.

Patients with PSA above 3 are highly suggested to perform a biopsy

Recurrent prostate cancer patients who had done their radiotherapy are not recommended to do operation

4. Your feelings & thoughts

I felt tired most of the day as the procedures I had listed above all started from 7.30am, and the distance from my stay to the hospital is pretty far (need to transit from bus to train). However for some reasons, I felt energetic back in the operation theatre as the nurses and surgeons kept talking to me, whether it was small talk or teaching me something during an operating procedure.

5. ONE good thing from what you did that you can practice now!

I can practice to be a more disciplined person. As a medical student, I should practice my punctuality to the operation theatre. Besides I should study before attending a surgical procedure, no matter it is for gaining or recalling back my medical knowledge which I had learnt back in UKM.

6. Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?

I still felt difficult to understand some Aussie slangs. Which made them to repeat their questions for me to answer them back. I also will learn some common phrases through social media.

7. Your plan for next week (Week 3)

Observe more surgical procedures other than the ones I had in the previous weeks.

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Week 1 General Surgery at Dr. Sitanala Hospital

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Week 1 General Surgery at Dr. Sitanala Hospital

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Name: Nashwa Tazkia Roesli

Matric number: A185506

How is your progress?
This week officially marked the beginning of my elective posting in the General Surgery Department at RSUP Dr. Sitanala. Alongside four other friends, we arrived early on our first day to meet our appointed supervisor, Dr. Filipus, a general surgeon who would serve as our coordinator for the two-week placement. We first met him in his clinic, where he warmly introduced us to his nurse and asked us about our objectives for the elective. We shared that our goal was to observe and assist both inside and outside the operating theatre. He then proposed the idea of us joining shifts in the Emergency Department, which we were open to; however, we asked to observe the general workflow over the next few days before fully committing, as our main focus remains in surgery. The meeting concluded with a tour of the hospital’s main building, part of a wide, 8-hectare campus made up of several separate structures. He then guided us to the OT complex and introduced us to the team of staff and nurses we would be working with closely.

Over the following days, we split into small groups, two students each under three supervisors. I was assigned to Dr. Filipus himself. He is a young, fast-paced, and sharp general surgeon. We would meet daily at 7:30 a.m. for ward rounds. Before he arrived, we would take histories on our own to better understand each case. After rounds in the main ward, we would shuttle to the leprosy ward in another building. While we couldn’t physically interact with patients there, we were encouraged to observe cautiously. After rounds, we prepared ourselves in the OT. Depending on the day’s schedule, my partner and I would alternate roles in assisting. Dr. Filipus was very supportive of us scrubbing in, allowing us to observe and help during surgeries. Even though he didn’t have many operations scheduled by the end of the week, we were able to join other specialists’ surgeries like orthopedics, pediatric surgery, and neurosurgery, thanks to their openness. This broadened our exposure, and in nearly every procedure we were involved in, we were given the chance to assist in suturing. We started with simple interrupted sutures and progressed to more complex techniques such as deep dermal suturing, all under supervision from either the surgeons or experienced OT nurses. I also had the opportunity to observe a variety of other surgeries that my friends scrubbed in for. It was fascinating to watch how different specialties approached their procedures. For instance, I observed a tendon repair surgery and noted the delicate precision required in handling and stitching the tendinous tissue. Moreover, I observed how quick a neurosurgeon can perform a evacuation craniotomy for a post-stroke patient. We also watched a laparoscopy appendctomy where there was moderate adhesion of the colon. In the orthopedic theatre, I learned how the surgical team relied on a C-arm fluoroscopy machine to accurately visualize the placement of screws and hardware when joining fractured bones. Additionally, I observed an incision biopsy procedure performed on a patient with a suspicious breast mass, where the surgeon carefully excised tissue for histopathological analysis to rule out malignancy. Each case broadened my exposure and deepened my understanding of the diverse techniques and tools used in the surgical field.

Points to remember from week 2!
During my surgical posting at UKM, my role was mainly focused on patient interaction, taking histories and performing physical examinations in clinics or wards. However, this elective gave me my first real exposure to surgical assistance. I was able to scrub in and assist in multiple procedures, including hernioplasties, open laparotomy appendectomies, and even debridement for diabetic ulcers that led to amputations. It was truly a thrilling experience to be part of the surgical team in the operating theatre. Initially, I played a minimal role, primarily handling suction, but from the second day onward, I was gradually entrusted with closing incisions using simple interrupted sutures and eventually learned deeper techniques like deep dermal suturing. This was also the first time I experienced the difference between suturing on silicone pads and on real human tissue. Human skin is much tougher and less predictable, requiring careful tension, precise spacing, and depth control for clean closure. These techniques were patiently taught to me by the surgeons and the incredibly helpful OT nurses. One of the most memorable moments was when Dr. Wahyuni allowed me to perform the initial skin incision during an open laparotomy appendectomy. It was challenging, cutting through skin, fat, and fascia, but she explained every anatomical layer and landmark thoroughly as I progressed. She even guided me to palpate the fecalith inside the inflamed appendix. It was one of the most illuminating and unforgettable experiences I’ve had in medical training so far.

Your feelings & thoughts
This week has deepened my admiration for the world of surgery. The dynamic and fast-paced nature of a surgeon’s day, moving from clinic to ward to OT, is something that energizes me. Watching the surgical team function with such coordination, from the anesthesiologists to nurses and surgeons, felt like witnessing a perfectly orchestrated performance. Being allowed to step into that environment and contribute, even in small ways, made me feel like I was exactly where I belonged.

ONE good thing from what you did that you can practice now!
Suturing is without a doubt the most valuable skill I’ve gained this week. I have developed a strong interest in it and want to continue improving and learning more advanced suturing styles and techniques. It is a hands-on skill that I now feel more confident about practicing.

Any difficulties/concerns? How did you cope?
One of the main challenges I faced this week was building confidence in my suturing technique. Unlike practicing on silicone pads, suturing real skin comes with pressure and no margin for error. Each stitch I placed carried real consequences, which made me feel quite anxious at first. I was especially challenged during deep dermal suturing where blood would sometimes pool and obscure my view, making it difficult to clearly see the edges I needed to approximate. I also felt the time pressure in the OT, knowing that another patient was already being prepped and I had to work efficiently without compromising accuracy. On top of that, being closely observed by the OT nurses added to my nervousness, as I was conscious of every small movement.

However, despite these initial difficulties, I received constant encouragement and supervision from Dr. Filipus and the operating theatre nurses. Their calm, step-by-step guidance helped ease my tension. They patiently corrected my hand technique, taught me how to adjust tension, angle the needle properly, and tie strong, clean knots. Over time, with repeated practice and positive reinforcement, I became more comfortable and confident. I now feel more in control when suturing, and I am starting to develop a better sense for precision, timing, and technique under pressure.

Your plan for next week (Week 3)
After settling into our roles this week, our group collectively decided to focus exclusively on the OT for the remainder of our elective. Our supervisors kindly gave us the flexibility to choose where we wanted to be stationed, and since our main goal is to improve our hands-on surgical skills, especially suturing, we chose to remain in the OT. Many of the surgeons, even those not directly supervising us, were very welcoming and supportive, particularly because they were alumni from the same university as us (Unpad). Next week, we plan to organize ourselves based on the daily surgery schedule and rotate among available procedures, ensuring everyone gets fair opportunities to assist and learn.