Almost Done

i think the effect of the lack of sleep over the past two weeks is starting to take its toll on me. Yesterday's two spinal tumour cases, on top of having only three hours o sleep, had me standing from 8 in the morning all the way till 7 PM. The life of a doctor, they all say. Mother was looking at me (possibly noting the increased weariness in my eyes) and saying how tough it must be experiencing how it's like being a doctor. However, it feels to me like something worth spending so much energy for. i've been more tired, without a doubt, but that's just probably cause i've had five full days of play and rest the moment i ended my IB examinations - i've not even done anything close to what the doctors have to do, i merely shadow.

While we have had several problematic encounters with the families of patients, i can acknowledge why sometimes these people act the way they do (which does not, however, give them the right to behave in such a manner). Apart from these people, we've also had family members who have been extremely understanding, which is something to give thanks for. One thing i've learnt especially pertinent to medicine, and other faculties related to it, is that you've got to be able to remain calm and composed no matter what kind of people you encounter (there has been such a diversity). i truly respect all doctors, pharmacists, nurses and hospital staff who have weathered the heat and the storms.

There is this one particular doctor i have much praise for. Not only does he spend so much time getting to know his patients better, he encountered this rather unreasonable man during the clinic session earlier this Tuesday and in my opinion, handled it extremely well. Moreover, he is ever so patient with his patients, and family members of the patients alike, as well as to me, a nobody who's incessantly asking (hopefully not stupid and redundant, as i try my best not to make them out to be) questions.

As i've reached close to the end of my hospital attachment at NUH, i can truly say that the experience has left me more aware. i wouldn't go to the extreme to say that i've had zero knowledge prior to my hospital visit and this attachment has enlightened me tremendously, as it would be rather ludicrous. But i can definitely claim that i've gained a significant amount of experience in the medical field and learnt several new things along the way. Life in itself is all about learning, isn't it?

And here i remain, more than a little grateful; continually seeking to learn and experience new things.