ClinicalTrack- Dr. Joel George

I'm currently preparing for an entrance examination for medical post-graduation courses.

During my clinical rotations, finding typical cases was a challenge. The current condition of the human body is a result of multiple events and diseases that have developed over time, which was initially difficult for me to grasp as a medical student. However, with consistent effort and growing familiarity, it became easier. Examining patients and identifying signs and symptoms is a skill that takes time to perfect, but with proper guidance, it can be achieved. During case presentations, I was often amazed by the vast knowledge possessed by my professors and their ability to practically implement it. It made me realize that I still had much to learn in the field of medical education.

When I was an intern in the surgery department, COVID was rampant, and my co-house surgeons were sent to quarantine. I had to be available in the ward 24/7 every day until someone came out of quarantine, so I couldn't even go to my room because who knew when a call would come. I started using my unit chief's room as my temporary shelter, literally living in it. One day, my unit chief came in early and found me brushing my teeth in his room. Upon seeing me, he immediately left. I expected he would be angry, but he was surprisingly chill about it. Looking back, it's still funny to recall standing in front of my professor, half asleep, with messed-up hair and a brush in my mouth.

Outpatient clinics (OPD) serve as an integral part of the medical profession, and my thoughts on them are generally positive. I find working in OPD enjoyable, challenging, and far from dull and boring. While peculiar cases in OPD are uncommon, they do break the monotony of the usual cases and make the experience stimulating.

One aspect I particularly enjoy about working in OPD is patient education. I find it interesting and rewarding to educate my patients about their conditions, as it helps me achieve maximum compliance from them. It is crucial to explain the nature of the disease, the chosen modality of treatment, and the potential adverse effects and complications. By providing thorough explanations, I hope to minimize misunderstandings and promote better patient understanding and cooperation.

However, I have noticed an increasing trend of violence from patients and bystanders in some cases. Properly explaining their condition and possible outcomes can help mitigate a small proportion of these incidents. It is disheartening when despite our best-efforts in patient education, some individuals still become non-compliant. This can leave me feeling let down, as I strive to provide the best care possible and want to see positive outcomes for my patient.

In the context of a government hospital, these duties can be incredibly hectic due to the high volume of patients. Tending to such a large number of patients can drain the energy and vitality of treating doctors. It often leads to burnout and feelings of being overwhelmed. Unfortunately, it seems that this issue is not given much attention, as doctors are often seen as resilient soldiers who must continue to stand strong.

While some doctors may argue that these duties provide valuable experience, I must disagree. According to me, doctors should have sufficient time to thoroughly examine patients and delve into the intricacies of their diseases. Medical education is not an overnight crash course. Rushing through patient care due to an excessive workload can compromise the quality of care provided It is important to ensure that doctors have the time and resources they need to deliver optimal care.

I strongly urge governments to address this issue by hiring more doctors. By maintaining a sufficient patient-doctor ratio, we can ensure better patient care and enable doctors to achieve a healthier work-life balance.

As I worked in a tertiary care hospital, my duties involved pre-rounding on patients before the consultant arrived. Then, I would join the rounds, send out investigations and consultations, follow up on them, and also perform and assist with various medical procedures.

As a junior doctor, I enjoy suturing.

During one of my early days of clinical rotations, I was examining a patient's chest without wearing a mask. To my surprise, the professor leaned in and informed me that the patient was sputum positive. It was later brought to my attention that one of our professors had contracted tuberculosis. That incident made me realize the critical importance of wearing a mask. Among all my clinical rotations, my favorite one would be internal medicine.

I would say that as doctors, we innately care about our patients and ignore the needs and welfare of our colleagues. The physical and emotional needs of a doctor are unmet, and this is glorified as a sacrifice or a sign of success. Although, it is important to recognize that doctors are humans too. A sleep-deprived and emotionally broken doctor cannot perform at their best, which can lead to suboptimal patient care. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid this tendency and prioritize the overall welfare of doctors while acknowledging their humanity.

Night calls are a regular part of night duty, and there isn't anything particularly special about them. However, it becomes absolutely brutal when the same doctor is required to work until the following evening, which is a common practice in many government hospitals.

It can be quite a hassle to have food during duty time, but we often take turns or, if lucky, get coverage while having our meals.

My first priority would be to get some sleep. If I have a day off coming up, I will make plans with my friends to travel.

I strongly dislike violence against doctors and the silence of the public towards it.

If there were a multiverse, I could see myself working as a teacher. I would truly appreciate having a work-life balance and a less risky life.

My ideal workplace would be a hospital with a good patient-doctor ratio, supportive management, and opportunities for personal growth. I would also value a workplace where there is no fear of violence from patients or bystanders.

Aside from being a doctor, I have a strong desire to explore other countries, their cultures, and their food. I enjoy connecting with new people and understanding their way of life, aspirations, and dreams.