Survive or Thrive??

According to the pharmacists, lawyers and some physicians....interns kill people!
The weapon of choice is the pen.
My brother still has a scar (well a tattoo really) on his neck from when we were kids. I stabbed him with a writing instrument for taking my ice-cream, so  I can totally understand how death by pen can happen.

I have no doubt that I will want to stab A LOT of people (e.g. consultants, patients, nurses, radiologists, pharmacists, orderlies, and myself) with my pen in the next year.
So how do I and all the hospital staff not just survive this year, but thrive??

Some tips from the head of the Radiology Dept which I think can be used not just in the hospital but in all areas of life.

1. If you forget something...admit it...don't lie or try to cover things up...it will only make it worse.
2. Treat all people with respect....you never know who is going to determine your future.
3. Help your colleagues...if you are ready to leave and someone in your workplace is swamped...offer a hand and lighten the load....you will appreciate it when they do the same for you.
4. Swap a shift...if someone asks and you can, do it. In real life, this translates to "be flexible" sometimes plans change. Work with and accommodate others...you may need a favour one day yourself.
5. Be organised....this might need a little work. I like the idea of being organised, but never seem to pull it off.
6. Be humble....plenty of people without a medical degree, know more than you do. So true.
7. No matter how overwhelmed you feel, you are never alone.
8. Don't piss the radiology dept off! (insert - husband, mother, child, friend, barrister...anyone really)
8. Have Fun!!

So day 2 as an Intern...I have a name badge, a provider number, a prescriber number and a poison pen.
I want the lovely pharmacist to be on speed dial on my phone! How will I ever write an insulin order or a Heparin infusion without her leaning over my shoulder?

Sailing.
Smooth calm waters with a firm but gentle breeze, which allows one time to get their bearings, plot a course and enjoy a safe ride.
This is what I hope for my intern year.
Man-friend and I just did the first weekend of our Competent Crew sailing course. It was so much fun, relaxing, exciting and tiring all at once.
Whilst the smooth sailing was nice and steady, the rough and unpredictable sailing, although nauseating, was exhilarating and when I learnt the most about the wind, the crew and my own abilities. (just quietly I'm an excellent helmsman and not so good at winching)

I expect to get a bit of both this year.....not just as I navigate the hospital and my new career as a doctor, but in my personal life as well. I just hope my vessel is seaworthy and my "crew" know when to put on a life jacket and clip on!

Always,
Skipper Trace
xoxo









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