I was fortunate to have been raised by a physician - my mother - who treated her patients and their families with not only the best medical care available, but also with compassion and undertanding that seemed only natural for what a relationship between a doctor, a patient, and concerned loved ones should be. My earliest memories of her as a physician are of reading the many cards and gifts she received from patients and their families thanking her for her thoughtfulness, care, and most importantly, for the gentle and wise way she'd helped them through the difficult times they'd experienced.
While the patient is the preeminent focus of a physician's concern, my mother taught me yet another invaluable lesson in assuring the best quality of care: the importance of those on 'the other side' of medicine, namely, the nurses, office administrators, janitors, fellow physicians, medical residents, students, phlebotomists, security guards, and everyone else who contributes to the patient's well-being. If someone you work with, however tagentially, has a problem, lend a hand!
At my current level, when I have ample amounts of time compared to the residents and nurses working beside me, it can make a huge difference simply to assist them with the little things. If a patient can't grab a cup of water because it's too far away, move it closer or hold it for them. If a nurse needs help transporting a patient to another room, grab hold of the bed and start opening doors. If a physician needs help tracking down a patient's records from another hospital, make the call yourself. If a resident needs someone to pick up their cleaning, then ... wish them the best of luck as they drive to get it themselves! There is a line, after all!
Having a team of individuals who feel supported will not only grease the wheels fo the medical machine, but it will allow patients to receive care from people who are happy, which I believe really does make a difference.
UICOM-P Medical Student
