> The debate about what attracts people to EM is an interesting one. I get
> the feeling that EM has a lot of very different personalities in it, and
> people who like different ways of working- more so than most other
> specialities. This could become an issue as the way departments are run is
> likely to become more standardised. At the moment we are recruiting higher
> specialist trainees to EM without knowing what sort of job will be
> available when they finish their training- which makes it difficult to
> select the right personalities. [Matt Dunn]
Indeed, becoming more important with MMC now.
> I agree with Sue more than Adrian about multitasking in EDs. I find it's
> pretty common.
Yes I agree multitasking is pretty common, but I'm not comfortable with it.
For example, I've often got several patients "on the go" with some in x-ray,
some waiting on bloods etc. I find this very inefficient. For example, I'm
often not free when their results become available so they have to wait even
longer, then I have to "refresh" the details of their case (unless it was
very simple) before making decisions on disposal.
I much prefer seeing a patient who is already worked up, with results
available. I then have one comprehensive consultation and move on. Much more
efficient and more satisfying for patient and doctor. Also means the
patient's wait to see the doctor is "in parallel" with their wait for
investigation results, rather than "in series". Can only be done if your
department's set up that way. Very good for us men with small RAMs despite
our impressive hard drives and processing power!
AF
|