Student Corner: Brittany Rupert

In May 2023, I completed my IPPE II rotation at Independence Health System (previously Excela Health) Westmoreland Hospital. My preceptor for this rotation was Pamela Weirs, one of the lead pharmacists of the pharmacy department. My time spent at Westmoreland Hospital was more than I could have ever imagined. I have learned so much in such a short period of time. I wanted to share some of the highlights of my experience, and how my preceptor helped to make my IPPE II so exceptional.

During my rotation, I was exposed to all aspects of the acute care setting. Some examples of the tasks I observed while on rotation were order verification, pharmacokinetic dosing, sterile and nonsterile compounding, dispensing and delivering medications, anti-coagulation management, and rounding in both the hospital’s ICU and step-down unit. This was achievable because my preceptor constructed a schedule for me each week that ensured I saw each job. Additionally, if there was a learning opportunity outside of my assigned task for the day, Pamela ensured that I was able to see that as well. For example, there was an interesting patient case in the ICU, and even though I was not rounding that day, I did go to the floor to observe that specific patient.

What I appreciate most about how my preceptor constructed my schedule, is that I got to participate in both technician and pharmacist tasks. I feel that it is so important that students are exposed to the duties that they will be completing as a future pharmacist. Because I was not able to actually complete most pharmacist tasks, the teach-back method was used to ensure I understood the discussed topics. This was such an educational method as it challenged me to think through each scenario as if I was the pharmacist on duty. I also enjoyed that I got to observe not only my preceptor, but almost every pharmacist in the department. I believe that seeing how each pharmacist completes tasks and thinks a little bit differently, is helpful as a student to determine what works best for your own personal workflow.

After each day, even if my preceptor was not working directly with me on the task, Pamela was certain to follow-up with me about my experience. She asked me for feedback such as what I liked, didn’t like, and what I learned throughout the day. She used the information I provided to help apply the tasks to my assignments. Pamela also asked me similar questions at the conclusion of the rotation, so that she could use my feedback to improve the experience for future students. 

Finally, my favorite part of my IPPE II experience were the challenges that my preceptor directed. I conducted two presentations, that were beyond university requirements, on methemoglobinemia and Enterobacter cloacae. I had such a great time researching these topics and following the patient cases in the hospital. These presentations were extremely educational and helped to grow my public speaking and research skills and prepare me for upcoming APPE rotations.

My IPPE II rotation at Independence Health System Westmoreland Hospital is one that I will never forget. I am grateful for my experience and for all that I have learned throughout it. I have become a better student pharmacist, and I know that this experience will help me in my future career as a pharmacist, as well. I couldn’t have asked for a better IPPE II rotation, all thanks to my outstanding preceptor. An exceptional rotation begins with a motivated and attentive preceptor!