Ashly Parmer
Responsibilities
A large part of my time was spent programming and leading small group exercise and assisting with cardiac rehabilitation classes. These classes involved collecting and monitoring patients' resting and exercising heart rates and blood pressures, conducting sub-maximal GXT treadmill tests, 3-lead ECG monitor placement and organizing/leading weekly wellness presentations. I was also given the opportunity to work with gym members one on one, write exercise prescriptions, collect medical history and perform functional fitness assessments.
Accomplishments
By the end of my internship experience I was able to conduct cardiac rehab sessions solo and assisted with an echocardiography stress test.
What advice would you give?
My advice for future students is to put into this internship as much as you would like to get out of it. Ask a lot of questions and get involved in as many facets of the agency as you can. Gain more experience by asking to observe different types of tests, sit in on meetings, and volunteer for activities outside of your day to day responsibilities.