Self-Awareness: The Study of Becoming a Physician - Mohr Flashcards
According to Mohr, what is the “single most important thing that you possess as a physician”?
Your reputation
Physicians and power in society…
Need to respect “the hierarchy”
What are the two main “power symbols” in medicine?
The white coat and title (MD, DO, NP, etc)
What is the most crucial variable in minimizing arrogance?
Awareness of “some” knowledge and subsequent power
How do we minimize arrogance? (ON TEST)
By being aware of it
What are a few things arrogance can lead to?
Medical errors
Professional struggles
Personal problems
Impairment
Cool quote
“It behooves we physicians to remember that we are but instruments of healing and not it’s source.” … we are “just facilitators”
What is an impaired physician?
One who is unable to fulfill professional or personal responsibilities because of psychiatric illness, alcoholism, or drug dependency
Depression is an increasing problem here
Approx. 15% of physicians will be impaired at one point
How do we know when a physician/colleague’s impairment problem is significant?
When the symptoms occur / are obvious while at work
How should we appreciate medicine?
As influencing health rather than controlling it
Tenants of emotional intelligence:
Expand language of emotions
Develop the capacity for self disclosure
Reflect others’ emotions
Use own emotions/self as a tool with patients
Control impulses, especially in conflict
Use cognitive reframing and self-instructional statements to influence moods
Describe “mindful practice”:
Purposefully attending to one’s own thoughts and feelings during everyday activities to be able to practice with greater clarity, insight and compassion
The Self of the Physician… overall review
Know that becoming a physician is who you are not just what you do,
Respect that medicine has great social capital; use your power wisely and intentionally,
Maintain humility; never be complacent,
Practice mindfully; it improves quality,
Remain self-aware; you are your most important tool,
Recognize and treat any impairment if it arises
