01/08/2025
My 10 top tips for new doctors...
1. Know your limits. Ask early and often.
You're not expected to know everything. Asking for help is a sign of safety and professionalism, not weakness. Never sit on a concern.
2. Get familiar with your Trust’s systems.
Learn the local IT systems (e.g., prescribing, results, discharge summaries). It’ll save you hours later. Write down helpful shortcuts and bleep numbers.
3. Introduce yourself to everyone.
Ward clerks, nurses, porters, pharmacists. These people will save your skin regularly. Build respectful relationships from day 1.
4. Keep a pocket book or notes app.
Start a mini survival guide: useful numbers, protocols, how to request scans, what to write on a death certificate, etc. You'll thank yourself daily.
5. Prioritisation > Perfection.
Focus on what’s urgent and unsafe first. Perfection is a luxury. Safe, timely care is the goal. You’ll get faster with practice.
6. Always document clearly.
If you didn't write it, it didn’t happen. Document decisions, discussions, and your reasoning. It protects your patients and you.
7. Eat, drink, p*e, and be merry.
You cannot pour from an empty cup. Your basic needs matter. Carry snacks and a refillable water bottle. Schedule breaks when you can.
8. You are not alone.
F1 is a team sport. Share your workload, back each other up, and vent together. Emotional support from p*ers is vital.
9. Embrace the learning curve.
Mistakes will happen. Reflect, learn, move on. Be kind to yourself. Growth comes from experience and time, not perfection.
10. Remember why you’re here.
Amid the stress, take moments to connect with patients. Those human interactions are why you chose this career. Don’t let the system turn you to stone.