Respect matters
CMAJ 1999;160:1288
The main point that I take from Robert Patterson's article [full text],1 as well as from my own experiences during a just-completed residency and fellowship, is that respect matters.
During training, all of the stress, long hours and difficult decisions can be transformed into 2 quite different things. If there is disregard and disrespect for the trainee, the bad becomes unbearable. This became obvious to me whenever a physician or nurse made sure that the "junior doctor" was belittled and put in his place. After all, one day this physician too would be like the others: uncaring, cold and self-hating. Such moments were very real, and very trying.
On the other hand, when I received respect and support from others, the worst situations could be dealt with through reflection, and this fostered collegiality. The really bad days were made tolerable, while egos and personal integrity were preserved at no extra cost.
I have now completed my training, and I consider myself neither uncaring, cold nor self-deprecating. I care for the patients and people I work with; there is no other option.
Joel Ray, MD
Hamilton, Ont.
rayjg@fhs.mcmaster.ca
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Reference
- Patterson R. "You're the worst goddam resident I've ever had." CMAJ 1998;159(7):823-5.
