Before you start your rotation, you need to know these things:

  1. Basic anatomy of the urinary system (kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra).
  2. Common urological conditions (e.g., urinary tract infections, benign prostatic hyperplasia, kidney stones, bladder cancer).
  3. Urological imaging techniques (e.g., ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, cystoscopy).
  4. Urological surgical procedures (e.g., prostatectomy, nephrectomy, cystectomy).
  5. Understanding of urological diagnostic tools (e.g., urinalysis, blood tests, PSA).
  6. Pharmacological management of urological conditions (e.g., alpha-blockers for BPH, antibiotics for UTIs).

Before you start your rotation, read these topics:

  1. Urinary tract infections: diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
  2. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): symptoms, diagnosis, and management.
  3. Urolithiasis (kidney stones): diagnosis, treatment, and surgical options.
  4. Prostate cancer: diagnosis (PSA testing, biopsy), staging, and treatment options.
  5. Bladder cancer: diagnosis (cystoscopy, urine cytology), staging, and management.
  6. Erectile dysfunction: causes, diagnostic work-up, and treatment.
  7. Urological emergencies (e.g., acute urinary retention, testicular torsion, renal colic).

During your rotation, carry these items:

  1. Stethoscope, pen, and notebook.
  2. A pocket guide for urological conditions and treatments.
  3. A folder for patient charts and notes.
  4. Comfortable shoes and surgical scrubs (if assisting in the OR).