STUDENT INDUSTRIAL WORK EXPERIENCE SCHEME (SIWES) REPORT

BY: YAHAYA MUHAMMAD SANI

ID Number: U/PHS/20/019

Departmen of Human Physiology, Yobe state University, Damaturu.

Hosted at Yobe state University Teaching Hospital, Damaturu.

From [3rt June, 2024 ] - [1st November, 2024]

 1. Acknowledgement

I am profoundly grateful to the management and staff of Yobe State University

Teaching Hospital, Damaturu, for providing me with the opportunity to
participate in the six-month SIWES program. This experience allowed me to gain
hands-on skills in Electrocardiography (ECG) and Electroencephalography (EEG),
as well as valuable insights into Echocardiography.

I extend my sincere appreciation to my supervisor, Mr. Hussaini Raji, for his

unwavering support, mentorship, and expertise, which greatly enhanced my
understanding of these diagnostic techniques and their clinical applications.

I am also deeply thankful to Yobe State University, especially the Department of

Human Physiology, for organizing and supporting this program. This experience
has been instrumental in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and
practical application, and it has significantly prepared me for future endeavors in
the field of medical physiology.
 2. Introduction

The Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) is a program

designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge acquired in
the classroom and practical skills required in the professional world. Its
primary purpose is to expose students to real-world applications of their
academic training, equip them with hands-on experience in their chosen
field, and enhance their employability upon graduation.

For students of Human Physiology, industrial training is of immense

importance as it provides an opportunity to apply physiological concepts
in clinical and laboratory settings. It also fosters the development of
critical skills, such as the use of diagnostic tools like the Electrocardiogram
(ECG) and Electroencephalogram (EEG), and introduces advanced
techniques like Echocardiography, which are essential for understanding
and managing human health.

During my SIWES program, I was privileged to be placed at the Yobe State

University Teaching Hospital, located in Damaturu, Yobe State. The
hospital is a leading institution in healthcare delivery, with a focus on
cardiology, neurology, and other specialized medical services. This
placement provided me with a conducive environment to gain practical
experience and deepen my understanding of physiological diagnostics and
their applications in patient care.
 3.Organization Profile

The Yobe State University Teaching Hospital, Damaturu, was established

to serve as a premier healthcare facility and a center for medical
education and research in Yobe State. Over the years, it has grown into a
reputable institution known for its commitment to providing high-quality
medical services and training opportunities for healthcare professionals
and students.

The hospital is structured into several specialized departments, including

Cardiology, Neurology, Radiology, Surgery, and others. These
departments are supported by well-equipped laboratories, diagnostic
units, and a dedicated team of medical professionals. The Cardiology and
Neurology units, in particular, focus on the diagnosis and management of
cardiovascular and neurological disorders, utilizing advanced diagnostic
tools such as Electrocardiograms (ECG), Electroencephalograms (EEG), and
Echocardiography.

This institution is highly relevant to my field of study, Human Physiology,

as it offers practical exposure to key diagnostic procedures and patient
care. During my SIWES placement, I had the opportunity to work closely
with experts in the Cardiology and Neurology units, enhancing my
understanding of physiological processes, diagnostic methodologies, and
their applications in clinical settings. The hospital's emphasis on research
and innovation aligns seamlessly with the objectives of my academic
program and future aspirations.

4.Description of Activities

Daily/Weekly Tasks
During my SIWES placement at the Yobe State University Teaching Hospital, I was
actively involved in a range of activities that bridged theoretical knowledge from
my Human Physiology studies with practical applications. My daily tasks included:

Performing Electrocardiograms (ECG): I assisted in setting up and operating ECG

machines to measure the electrical activity of the heart, which helped me
understand cardiac physiology and arrhythmia detection in real time.

Observing and Conducting Electroencephalograms (EEG): I participated in

preparing patients for EEG tests, recording brain activity, and interpreting
waveforms, which deepened my understanding of neurological functions and
disorders.

Patient Preparation and Equipment Maintenance: I regularly prepared patients

for diagnostic procedures and ensured the proper functioning of diagnostic
machines, reinforcing the importance of hygiene and accuracy in clinical practices.

Learning Basic Echocardiography Techniques: I observed and assisted in

echocardiographic imaging, gaining foundational insights into cardiac anatomy
and function.

These tasks were supervised by experienced professionals, and they allowed me

to directly apply physiological concepts such as cardiac and neural signaling,
which are core components of my academic program.
Key Projects

1. ECG Interpretation Training:

Goal: To enhance my understanding of ECG waveform interpretation and its

relevance in diagnosing cardiac conditions.

Role: I reviewed recorded ECG readings, identified abnormalities, and discussed

findings with my supervisor to understand their clinical implications.

Outcome: I developed proficiency in recognizing common cardiac issues such as

arrhythmias and ischemia.

2. EEG Waveform Analysis:

Goal: To learn how to analyze EEG waveforms for neurological conditions such as
epilepsy.

Role: I assisted in recording EEG data and conducted basic analysis under
supervision, focusing on identifying irregular patterns.

Outcome: I gained insight into the brain’s electrical activities and the physiological
basis of neurological disorders.

3. Patient Care and Diagnostic Reporting:

Goal: To improve patient interaction skills and understand the workflow of

diagnostic reporting.
Role: I helped document diagnostic results, supported patient education, and
learned how these reports contribute to clinical decision-making.

Outcome: I acquired skills in effective communication and an appreciation for the

collaborative nature of healthcare delivery.

These activities and projects provided a well-rounded exposure to clinical

physiology, significantly enhancing my practical knowledge and preparing me for
future professional challenges.
 5.Skills and Knowledge Acquired

Technical Skills

1. Equipment Handling:

Proficient in setting up, operating, and maintaining diagnostic equipment such as

ECG and EEG machines.

Gained foundational knowledge of echocardiographic imaging and the

interpretation of cardiac waveforms.

2. Diagnostic Techniques:

Acquired skills in performing and interpreting ECG recordings to assess cardiac

health.

Learned to conduct EEG tests using ten twenty system of electron placement.

Observed and assisted in basic echocardiographic procedures, enhancing my

understanding of cardiac imaging.

3. Data Documentation and Reporting:

Developed the ability to document diagnostic results accurately and prepare

reports that contribute to clinical decision-making.

4. Clinical Procedures:

Gained hands-on experience in preparing patients for diagnostic tests and

ensuring procedural hygiene.
Soft Skills

1. Teamwork:

Collaborated effectively with healthcare professionals, learning to work as part of

a multidisciplinary team to provide optimal patient care.

2. Communication:

Improved communication skills by interacting with patients and colleagues,

explaining procedures, and discussing diagnostic results.

3. Time Management:

Learned to prioritize tasks and manage time efficiently in a fast-paced clinical

environment, ensuring timely completion of assignments.

4. Problem-Solving:

Developed critical thinking and problem-solving skills by troubleshooting

equipment issues and interpreting complex diagnostic data under supervision.
5. Adaptability and Work Ethic:

Adapted to a professional work environment and consistently demonstrated a

strong commitment to learning and contributing effectively to the team.

This combination of technical and soft skills has significantly enhanced my

readiness for a career in clinical physiology and academic research.
 6. Challenges and Solutions
Challenges

1. Lack of Sufficient Cardiologists for Echocardiography

The hospital faced a shortage of specialized cardiologists to conduct

echocardiographic procedures regularly. This limited my exposure to hands-on
practice in echocardiography and reduced opportunities for learning from experts
in the field.

2. Initial Hesitation in Patient Interaction

At the beginning of my placement, I found it challenging to interact confidently

with patients, especially when explaining procedures or preparing them for
diagnostic tests. This was due to limited prior experience in a clinical setting.

3. Technical Difficulties with Equipment

Occasionally, I encountered technical issues with diagnostic machines, such as

connectivity problems and calibration errors, which disrupted workflow.

Solutions

1. Collaborating with Available Professionals:

I maximized learning opportunities by observing and assisting the available
cardiologists and other healthcare professionals during echocardiography
sessions. Additionally, I supplemented my practical exposure by studying
echocardiographic techniques and anatomy through available resources and
discussions with my supervisor.

2. Improving Patient Interaction Skills:

To overcome my initial hesitation, I practiced effective communication by

observing how experienced professionals interacted with patients. I gradually
became more confident by engaging with patients during non-invasive
procedures, always maintaining professionalism and empathy.

3. Resolving Technical Issues:

With guidance from my supervisor, I learned basic troubleshooting techniques for

equipment, such as recalibrating machines and addressing minor connectivity
issues. For major problems, I reported them promptly to the technical support
team, ensuring minimal disruption to diagnostic processes.

These challenges provided valuable learning experiences, helping me develop

resilience, adaptability, and a proactive approach to problem-solving, all of which
are essential for a career in clinical physiology.
 7. Impact of SIWES on Career Development

The SIWES program at Yobe State University Teaching Hospital, Damaturu, has
been a transformative experience, significantly shaping my career aspirations and
preparing me for future challenges in clinical physiology

Preparation for Future Career Challenges

1. Practical Application of Knowledge:

The hands-on experience with diagnostic tools like ECG and EEG allowed me to
apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, enhancing my technical
proficiency.

Observing and assisting with echocardiographic procedures has given me a

foundational understanding of advanced diagnostic techniques, preparing me for
further specialization.

2. Professional Development:

Working in a clinical environment improved my ability to adapt to fast-paced

healthcare settings, strengthened my time management skills, and enhanced my
capacity to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.

Overcoming challenges such as patient interaction and equipment

troubleshooting helped build my confidence and problem-solving abilities,
essential traits for a successful career in healthcare.

Insights Gained About the Industry

1. The Importance of Specialized Skills:

The shortage of cardiologists running echocardiographic procedures highlighted
the need for professionals with specialized expertise in diagnostic techniques.
This insight has motivated me to pursue further training in cardiology and
echocardiography.

2. Patient-Centered Care:

Interacting with patients emphasized the importance of empathy and effective

communication in healthcare delivery. This experience has shaped my approach
to patient care, reinforcing my commitment to holistic, patient-focused practices.

3. The Role of Technology in Healthcare:

The use of advanced diagnostic tools underscored the critical role of technology in
modern medicine, inspiring me to stay updated on technological advancements in
my field.

Shaping My Aspirations

This experience has solidified my desire to contribute to clinical and academic

physiology. It has also encouraged me to specialize in cardiology and neurology,
fields where I can combine my technical skills and passion for understanding
human physiology. Ultimately, SIWES has equipped me with the skills, knowledge,
and perspective needed to excel in both clinical practice and academic research.
 8. Suggestions for Improvement

1. Issuance of Certificates by Host Organizations:

Host organizations, should provide students with certificates of participation at

the end of the SIWES program. This would serve as official recognition of the skills
acquired and enhance the students' professional portfolios for future
opportunities.

2. Increased Awareness of SIWES Importance:

Yobe State University should organize more awareness programs for students
before the SIWES placement. These programs should highlight the importance of
the scheme in bridging theoretical knowledge with practical applications and
preparing students for industry demands.

3. Enhanced Supervision During SIWES:

The university should strengthen its supervision of students during the program
by increasing the frequency of visits and interaction between students and faculty
supervisors. This would ensure that students are making the most of their
placements and receiving adequate support to address challenges.

4. Improved Collaboration with Host Organizations:

The university and host organizations should work closely to create structured
programs that align with the students' academic curriculum. This would ensure
that students gain relevant skills and exposure during their placements.

5. Provision of Learning Resources:

Both the university and host organizations should provide access to learning
materials, such as manuals, videos, or workshops, to complement the practical
training received during SIWES.
Implementing these suggestions would enhance the overall SIWES experience,
ensuring that students derive maximum benefit from the program while
contributing effectively to their host organizations.
 9. Conclusion

My experience during the SIWES program at Yobe State University Teaching

Hospital, Damaturu, has been both enriching and transformative. The opportunity
to apply the theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom to real-world clinical
settings was invaluable. Through hands-on experiences with diagnostic tools like
ECG, EEG, and insights into echocardiography, I gained technical skills that are
essential for my future career in human physiology.

SIWES has truly bridged the gap between academic learning and industry practice,
providing me with a deeper understanding of the physiological processes and
diagnostic techniques critical to healthcare. The exposure to patient care,
teamwork, and the functioning of a clinical environment has equipped me with
both technical and soft skills that will prove beneficial in my professional journey.

Overall, SIWES has reinforced my passion for clinical physiology and motivated me
to further specialize in cardiology and neurology. The program has been an
essential part of my academic and career development, and I am confident that
the experience will serve as a strong foundation as I pursue my aspirations in
healthcare and academia.
 10. Reference

1. Guyton, A. C., & Hall, J. E. (2021). Textbook of Medical Physiology (14th ed.).
Elsevier.

This textbook provided a comprehensive foundation in medical physiology, which

was integral to understanding the physiological concepts I applied during my
placement, particularly in relation to the cardiovascular and neurological systems.

2. Gannon, C. S. (2019). Essentials of Clinical Electrocardiography (2nd ed.).

McGraw-Hill Education.

This resource was instrumental in guiding me through the principles and

interpretation of ECG, allowing me to better understand its application in
diagnosing cardiac conditions.

3. Semblingham, P. (2017). Practical Echocardiography: A Guide to the Use of

Echocardiography in Clinical Practice (3rd ed.). Springer.

This book helped me gain insights into echocardiographic techniques and their
clinical applications, which I observed during my placement.
4. Yobe State University Teaching Hospital, Damaturu (2024). Hospital Procedural
and Diagnostic Guidelines.

Internal hospital documentation that provided useful protocols for conducting

diagnostic tests like ECG and EEG.

5. Yobe State University (2024). SIWES Placement Manual and Guidelines.

The university's manual on the Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme, which
outlined expectations, requirements, and procedures for students during the
program.

These references were crucial in enhancing my understanding of the physiological

concepts and diagnostic techniques I encountered during my SIWES placement.
 Appendices

1. SIWES Logbook:

All the detailed daily and weekly activities, tasks, and experiences during the
placement at Yobe State University Teaching Hospital are recorded in the SIWES
logbook. This logbook includes specific dates, descriptions of activities, and skills
learned.

2. Supporting Documents:

Any additional supporting documents, such as photos, charts, or graphs, that

illustrate key moments of the placement, including the use of diagnostic
equipment (ECG, EEG), patient interactions, and other relevant experiences, are
also provided in the logbook.