I know it's been a while since I've posted here, but the last six weeks since Black Wednesday have made me aware of some sad facts.
The following pieces of advice are a result of events that have made me cringe:
- I've said it before and I'll say it again: Be nice to the nurses, they will stop you from killing your patients.
They also know where the secret stash of biscuits are kept and will keep you fed and watered when you've not stopped in 10 hours. But only if you're nice to them.
Nothing spreads faster than the reputation of a rude junior doctor.
- Listen to your colleagues. An FY2 doctor may only be a year above you, but that's a whole year more of learning from mistakes.
- The converse can also be said: just because you're an FY2 does not mean you can dump all your rubbish jobs on the FY1! Six weeks ago you were an FY1. Just because it happened to you doesn't make it right, it just gives you an opportunity to do the right thing.
- Everyone hates long shifts. Remember to eat, drink and pee. No-one can do it for you!
- And just to reiterate the first point: be nice to the nurses, you will want their help with getting your portfolio signed off!
Happy doctoring to all the newbies!
