10 concepts that will help you thrive as an intern

The first year of residency can be one of the most physically and emotionally challenging years of your training. A chief resident offers tips for navigating this part of your education. In this second post of a two-part series, Dr. Faton Bytyci, chief resident at Sacred Heart Hospital’s family medicine residency program in Allentown, Penn., provides insights to help you thrive throughout the challenges of your intern year. 1. Say goodbye to being the best at everything you do. When you start the first year, it’s important to recognize that there’s a lot you don’t know, Dr. Bytyci said. At the same time, don’t let that hold you back from learning everything you can. “It’s OK because you are being watched by every nurse, medical assistant, senior, attending, even the people who empty the trash,” he said. 2. Know that you will make mistakes—and you will hear about them. “You will be paged by a senior resident or attending physician to ask you why you did this thing or that,” Dr. Bytyci said. “Don’t argue. Just say you’re sorry, then cry in the corner for a moment and get over it. You are not a bad person because you made a mistake.” 3. Ask for help. “If you are completely over your head, admit it and ask for help,” he said. “Don’t pretend to be smart. Every residency is different and has specific regulations that you have to learn and follow. So focus on learning.” 4. Be honest. “It’s very important for your senior r...
Source: AMA Wire - Category: Journals (General) Authors: Source Type: news