Things that should have been mentioned during medical school

Working life is a bit different in compared to that of a student. Sure we were taught of the diseases but there are certain things that are new to me.

For instance, when you work later on, you have to learn on how to fill in numerous amount of forms. If we order blood sample, you should be familiarise with the KKM form. If your patient has dengue, you have to fill up the "Notification form". Referral to other departments also require form filling. As Miri General Hospital is still not computerised, you need to fill it by hand. At this point, i surely appreciate free pens. So, Please bring extra pens in your bag and also smooth pens will be an advantage. My current favourite is Faber Castell Grip X5.

Other things that you need to learn is how to be confident. Family members will always ask the current state of the patient. So you need to clear up their head by explaining the prognosis and the current plan. Be aware that patient's confidentiality still is a priority. Dont feel pressurise if there is a YB for instance asking about the patient's condition. If they are not related, dont spill out everything.

Some patients can also keep you crazy with their never ending complaints. Headache, stomachache, chest pain are a few examples of common complaint. Some of these should be taken seriously based on the patient's premorbid status. Otherwise, some just require verbal reassurance.

You should also be familiar on how to refer cases. As a houseman, you need to sell your stories to your MO. If it is not convincing, be prepared for some scoldings or rejections.

There are some other things tht i can list but i'll stop here. Dont worry, i'll continue some other days. Bye!