In message <[log in to unmask]>, Andy
Conway Morris <[log in to unmask]> writes
>I usually just lurk on this list –but feel moved to defend the current
>generation of medical students and new doctors.
This is not a matter of defending yourself.
> Others have adequately
>covered the case for teaching communication skills. However there are some
>myths going around which include the one that today's students learn nothing
>but touchy-feely comms skills, this is utter rubbish and comms skills take
>up only a small part of medical training.
I agree that the touchy-feely stuff is utter rubbish!
>Teaching in anatomy has changed, as have other basic sciences – does this
>make new doctors less good than those traditionally trained with two years
>of pretty turgid science? I am not aware of any good evidence showing this
>(rather than the ‘in my day…..’ or the ‘you wouldn’t believe the student I
>had today……..’ variety).
It's changed all right- for the worst!
>For those who complain, remember that you will retain the information you
>commonly use – in A+E the anatomy of certain regions is very important, as
>are parts of physiology and other basic sciences. Can you honestly hold
>your hand up and say you remember the basic sciences you no longer use?
>(Krebs cycle anyone?).
The older I get, the more I use and see, underpinning practice. The
Krebs ccle, I must admit, has fallen into disuse in my mind, but the by-
products have not.
>If you come across someone (student or junior) who apparently does not know
>what you consider to be an important piece of information then, rather than
>throwing your hands up in despair and muttering ‘young people these days….’,
>explain why this info is important and encourage them to find out more.
I did'nt. I patiently explained what a eustacian tube was and what the
relationship that knowledge had to the patient she was presenting to me.
>Sadly you will always come across some muppets, they reflect their own
>ineptitude not poor courses.
>Andy Conway Morris
>med student
>Glasgow
Now go and read some Last.........;-) !!!
--
Stephen Hughes SpR 'Arlow & Curmudgeon extraordinaire
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