As physicians we’re taught to bury emotions. That may mean our health and well-being can come second to that of our patients.
But it doesn’t have to be this way.
In fact, burying our emotions may impede our ability to provide the best patient care.
This month we heard from Julie Samora, MD, PhD and Alvin Jones, MD, MS about supporting second victims and the power of admitting mistakes. One of the common themes I picked up on in both of their messages was vulnerability and courage.
In surgical training and in healthcare, there is a prevailing sentiment that obedience and compliance are essential. But this can lead to some negative unintentional consequences. Instead, we should be promoting courage rather than discouraging vulnerability.