Ralph Dale S.

Dela Torre

Med III – Section A Group 6

Reflection Paper

Toxicology

Context

The module was all about studying the different drugs and environmental factors
that can cause toxicity to human beings. We, as humans cannot tolerate high doses of
these toxic substances because our bodies were not meant to ingest these in large
amounts. This module is important because as future physicians, we need to know how
to treat patients who were exposed to these harmful substances. The following program
outcomes were utilized in this module: PO #1, developing clinical competence, PO #2,
developing effective communication, PO #6, utilizing a systems-based approach to
healthcare, PO #7, engaging in continuing personal and professional development, PO
#8, adhering to ethical, professional and legal standards, PO #9, demonstrating
nationalism, internationalism and dedication to service, and finally, PO #10 which is
practicing the principles of social accountability.

Experience

This module was very difficult. Me as a medical student, I am not a fan of

memorizing a lot of substances or I am not a fan of enumerating the different harmful
and toxic and corrosive substances. Not only was the topic itself was difficult, but the
exam was very difficult too. This toxicology exam was the most difficult exam we had so
far in third year. We had activities such as SGD with our groupmates which highlights
PO # 1, and # 2. We also had different pre recorded lectures which is in line with PO #6,
#7, #9 and #10. Aside from the pre recorded lectures, we also had a live lecture which
is different because this time, live lectures allow students to participate in the
discussion. Before having the live lecture, each group was given a case to study
beforehand. This highlights PO #2, #6, #7, #9 and #10.

Reflection

I feel like the small group discussions we had in this module was very interesting
and I also felt like we each learned a lot. The module itself is confusing because the we
needed to memorize the toxic substances, how harmful they are and what kind of
adverse effects they can cause to humans. The small group discussion is in line with
PO # 1 and PO # 2 because we were able to prepare and discuss thoroughly and that
helped us practice clinical competence and communication. The pre-recorded lectures
certainly help us improve as students, and there are just some things that you can learn
better if they are discussed by a professional rather than just reading. This highlights
PO #6, #7, #9 and #10. The live lecture also helped because this time, we participated.
It is different from the pre-recorded lectures because we were given the opportunity to
participate and answer questions thrown to us by the lecturer.

Action

My first plan of action is to read more about toxic substances. Whenever I get the
chance, for example, if I come across an article on the newspaper about at incident that
involves toxic substance ingestion, I will make sure to read the entire article and then I
will begin to learn and read more on that toxic substance from other sources. This is a
good way to learn because it would help me apply my knowledge to real life situations.
My next plan of action is to quiz myself. I feel like to really learn something, I have to
question myself. I found that if I do that, that will really help me retain knowledge and I
know this is will come in handy in the future in the hospital setting. My next plan of
action is also to manage my time properly. Ever since this module, I have had a hard
time of adjusting my daily routine and I fail to accomplish what I should have
accomplished in day. Therefore, I will do my best to improve in managing my time.

Evaluation

I think my efforts for this module was not quite sufficient because I was not able
to pass the exam on this. This exam was very difficult. I did not expect this because my
friends from fourth year told me that their exam on toxicology last year was easy.
Surprisingly, the exam was way more difficult than last year’s exam, but I was also able
to prepare for the synthesis efficiently and I was able to contribute what I was able to
study for the synthesis. Honestly, I think this module was good because I know that this
can apply to everyday situations. Toxic substances such as alcohol are very common
and a lot of people love to drink for fun. Drinking for fun is a harmful practice and I can
say that this module made me realize how important it is to know the adverse effects so
that I will be able to identify the diagnosis of patients.