Ann Tukpah: Understanding the Significance of "Normal" vs. "Abnormal" Test Results BACK

Published by AFAR

We are a few weeks into the MSTAR program and the summer days have been long but fleeting. Our most recent didactic session was truly dynamic; topics from prostate cancer screening, survey development and funding and grant writing were studied. It was an informative and lively session. I’m continuing my work at the Non-Invasive Cardiology unit at Mount Sinai, studying patient outcomes after a myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) test. My project will investigate differences between patients over age 80 that have an “abnormal” MPI study and those that have a “normal” study. We will also explore the downstream actions (invasive procedure, medical management, further testing, no follow-up) taken after an MPI study has taken place. We would like to describe the patient population seen here, understand difference between them and determine what patients can expect after a study is completed. We anticipate this research will promote understanding of our geriatric population, impact clinical decisions on testing geriatric patients and contribute to the general body of knowledge. The team in the unit – attending, fellows, nurses, and technicians – have all been very welcoming and patient in answering all my questions and teaching me exciting things. I’m looking forward to continuing to learn more.

In addition to the didactic sessions and research, the shadowing at the Martha Stewart Center was a great experience. The patients were very interested in speaking with me and the attending explained many concepts and actions. It was a unique opportunity to interact with everyone involved and I am appreciative of the dedicated time to engage in this opportunity.

Ann Tukpah
Mount Sinai School of Medicine

"Diary of an MSTAR Student" follows scholars in the 2012 Medical Student Training in Aging Research (MSTAR) Program, highlighting their summer experiences. As they continue their path of research, training and clinical practice, read their daily thoughts at www.afar.org/mstarblog. New diary entries are posted every day, so check back soon.