Ethnical Issues
Okay now, one of the hardest things you will ever have to learn is coping with people, sometimes even with your own CG mates. All of you will have your own set of beliefs, values and working style and sometimes, unhappiness and misunderstanding occur because these views differ. Be wary of this and learn to control your emotions and reactions.
Hope that in your clinical postings course you will not get over-excited about a “super must see XXX disease” and neglect the fact that the patient has visitors or he is very tired after accommodating countless numbers of medical students earlier on. To you, seeing this XXX disease means getting to see something really important and interesting but to the patient, getting this disease could mean having his entire life turned upside down. The patient may be very sad, worried about his family and financial support. Understand that and do not get over-obsessed with the disease he has. Remember,
“The patient is there for a reason, he is there to be treated and cared for. If he is willing to talk to you, allow you to examine him, by all means go ahead. If not, then give him the rest and respect he deserves. You do not pay your school fees to the patient”
What my first tutor told me
The same concept applies to even procedures like drawing blood. You need to practice so that you can draw blood from others in future. However, remember that you’re a student too, if after trying for 1-2 times you still fail, I feel that it would be a good idea to leave the job to the doctors/nurses. Failure could mean that you are incompetent or that the patient’s veins are really super hard to see. Regardless of whatever reason, a more experienced doctor would definitely have a higher chance to draw the blood. DO NOT cause the patient unnecessary pain.
All the best for your clinical years!
Index Overview of M3 Basics General Hospital Layout General pointers in clinical work
Main Objectives of the various postings Books Case Write-ups Presentations
On-line resources General Tips for Exams Ethics