As a pre-PA, clinical rotations are on the horizon and in your future. This is the phase where the classroom meets the real world, and you get to apply everything you’ve learned while working alongside experienced healthcare providers. It’s exciting, nerve-wracking, and one of the most rewarding parts of your PA journey.

In this crash course, we’ll cover what clinical rotations are like, what to expect, and tips to help you prepare before you get there.

Clinical rotations are hands-on training experiences where PA students work in different specialties under the supervision of licensed providers. These rotations typically last 4–8 weeks each and span a variety of disciplines, such as family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, surgery, emergency medicine, women’s health, psychiatry, and elective specialties like dermatology or orthopedics. Think of rotations as your “try-it-before-you-choose-it” phase, giving you a chance to explore areas you might want to pursue after graduation.

What to Expect During Clinical Rotations

Clinical rotations are an exciting shift from the classroom to real-world medical practice. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

Early Mornings and Long Days
Say goodbye to the luxury of flexible study schedules! Rotations often start early, with shifts running anywhere from 8 to 12 hours—or even longer. In some specialties, like surgery, you might need to be in the hospital by 5:00 AM for rounds.

A Steep Learning Curve
The first few weeks of your rotations might feel overwhelming as you adapt to a new environment, learn how each preceptor works, and master the flow of patient care. Don’t worry—this is normal! Carry a small notebook or use a note-taking app to jot down things you learn throughout the day, from medical facts to helpful phrases your preceptor uses with patients.

Direct Patient Care
You’ll work with real patients and be expected to contribute to their care. This can include taking histories, performing physical exams, assisting in procedures, and developing treatment plans under supervision. Brush up on common chief complaints for each specialty (e.g., abdominal pain in family medicine, shortness of breath in emergency medicine) so you feel more confident walking into patient rooms.

Preceptor Expectations Vary
Each preceptor will have their own teaching style and expectations. Some might want you to shadow more at the beginning, while others may throw you into patient care right away. On your first day, ask your preceptor how they prefer to teach and what they expect from you. Being proactive shows initiative and helps you adapt to their style.

Feedback Is Constant
You’ll receive regular feedback on your performance—both positive and constructive. Don’t take criticism personally; it’s meant to help you grow into a competent provider. Actively seek feedback by asking questions like, “How can I improve my patient presentations?” or “What could I do better next time?”

How to Prepare for Clinical Rotations

Even before you start rotations, there’s plenty you can do to set yourself up for success:

Master the Basics
Review foundational skills like taking patient histories, performing physical exams, and presenting cases. Practice these skills on friends, family, or classmates. Invest in a good pocket guide, like Pocket Medicine or The Sanford Guide to Antimicrobial Therapy, to keep handy during rotations.

Familiarize Yourself with Common Medications and Procedures
Know the basics about frequently prescribed drugs (e.g., antibiotics, antihypertensives) and common procedures (e.g., suturing, phlebotomy). Watch YouTube tutorials or use resources like UpToDate and AMBOSS to brush up on procedures.

Organize Your Supplies
Equip yourself with the tools you’ll need: a stethoscope, penlight, comfortable shoes, a small notebook, and pocket reference guides. Keep extra snacks and a water bottle in your bag—long days can drain your energy quickly!

Work on Communication Skills
You’ll be interacting with patients, preceptors, and the healthcare team every day. Practice explaining medical terms in simple language, as well as presenting cases concisely to preceptors. Role-play patient encounters with classmates or friends to fine-tune your communication style.

Develop a Growth Mindset
You’re not expected to know everything during rotations, but you are expected to be eager to learn. You should treat every rotation like it’s your absolute favorite, even if it’s not. Your preceptors are opening their clinic and patients for you to learn, so be professional, show you are appreciative and eager to learn, and treat each site as it’s your top one. Approach each day with humility, curiosity, and a willingness to take on challenges. Don’t fear mistakes—they’re part of the learning process. Just make sure to learn from them!

Tips for Thriving During Rotations

• Be Early: Arriving a few minutes early shows you’re reliable and committed.
• Be Curious: Ask thoughtful questions about patient care, procedures, and diagnoses.
• Be Respectful: Treat everyone on the healthcare team—from physicians to nurses to techs—with kindness and professionalism.
• Be Organized: Use a planner or app to track your schedule, patient cases, and notes.
• Be Kind to Yourself: Clinical rotations are demanding. Make time for self-care and celebrate small wins along the way.

Final Thoughts

Clinical rotations are an incredible opportunity to grow as a future PA. They’ll push you out of your comfort zone, challenge your knowledge, and help you discover your strengths. By preparing early and embracing the learning curve, you’ll make the most of this exciting chapter in your PA school journey.