Southeast Campus

Introduction To Rheumatology

Innovis Health, Veteran's Administration Hospital

IMED 9226

Faculty Director:  Joseph Sleckman, M.D.

Participating Faculty: Drs. Joseph Sleckman -  Innovis Health
                                     Dr. Ann M. Buettner - Fargo VA Medical Center
 

Offered: All Positions

Objectives of the Elective:

  1. To expose the student to a wide range of rheumatic diseases in adults and children.
  2. To teach the principles of physical examination of the musculoskeletal system.
  3. To familiarize the student with laboratory testing in diagnosis and management of the rheumatic diseases, with an emphasis on synovial fluid analysis.
  4. To familiarize the student with the various imaging studies used in the diagnosis and management of the rheumatic diseases.
  5. To introduce the student to community resources available to arthritis patients and assessment of disability.

Instructional Activities:

  1. The student will see patients in an outpatient setting with one of the preceptors. This will take place primarily at Dakota Clinic, with supplemental days as needed at the VA Medical Center with Dr. Buettner..
  2. The student will make hospital rounds with the preceptor and take part in the inpatient rheumatology consultation service.
  3. To the extent permitted by the patients, instruction will be given in joint aspiration and injection techniques.
  4. Case discussion will take place with the preceptor on a daily basis.
  5. Attendance at the appropriate conferences will be expected.
  6. Some limited interaction with orthopedics, radiology, and physical therapy may be possible.
  7. Reading from basic rheumatology text books will be expected, and the student will be exposed to the major rheumatology journals.

Standards of Performance (Outcomes) Indicating Attainment of Objectives:

  1. The student will be expected to be able to conduct an adequate history and physical, with special emphasis on the musculoskeletal system.
  2. The student will be expected to be able to give a good case presentation.
  3. Participation in the care of clinic and hospital patients.
  4. Although writing a paper on a case or topic in rheumatology is not required, it is encouraged as a way of attaining a grade of "honors" in the rotation.
  5. The student will be receive an evaluation at the end of the rotation according to the medical school guidelines.

Criteria for Grading:

  1. Degree of medical knowledge acquired during the rotation.
  2. Ability to take a rheumatologic history and perform an exam directed at the musculoskeletal system.
  3. Attendance, punctuality, interaction with patients and colleagues, and professional demeanor.
  4. Initiative in undertaking any special projects or assignments.