Warwick MMI Flashcards
Teamwork / leadership
- I took on leadership roles/worked in a team when conducting group work during my degree by using my communication and organisation skills to delegate tasks fairly, organise meetings at times suited to everyone, and meet deadlines.
- I created a professional group chat that was used to communicate and deal with any problems anyone experienced before meetings and ensure successful collaboration was achieved which was done by using our meetings and the group chat as a space to share ideas and explore each other’s perspectives.
- I think this was something that we all benefitted from because we were able to gain insight into alternative perspectives that individually, we may not have considered. Having this system in place helped to motivate others and myself to stay resilient and on the right track in terms of workload.
- These attributes are fundamental during medical school and life as a doctor as they relate directly to the NHS value of ‘working together for patients’. Collaboration is key for delivering optimal patient care.
- The ability to effectively communicate, delegate tasks, and organize meetings is directly transferable to medical team dynamics. Task delegation and meeting deadlines echoes the NHS value of ‘commitment to quality of care’ as precision and adherence to timelines are critical.
- My experience reinforced the significance of these values, ensuring that the team could deliver quality work within the set time frame—a skill that is needed in the fast-paced and demanding environment of medical education and practice.
Teamwork (WEX)
- I worked as a vaccinator in a mass COVID-19 vaccination centre where teamwork was indispensable due to the high volume of service users. The entire vaccination program relied heavily on collaboration within the multidisciplinary team to ensure efficiency in a such a high-pressure environment.
- I collaborated daily with registered healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, and administrative staff. This links to the NHS values of ‘everyone counts’ and ‘working together for patients’ as vaccination programs are collaborative efforts that involve various healthcare professionals, administrators, and community workers working together for the well-being of the public.
- One notable instance involved an autistic child who was nervous about receiving the vaccine. By collaborating with a colleague, we devised a creative solution, leveraging the child’s interest in planes to make the experience more comfortable.
- This showcased effective teamwork and creative problem solving whilst also upholding ethical principles such as beneficence and non-maleficence. We came up with a solution where we ‘did good’ and acted in the boy’s best interest by eventually administrating the vaccine and did no harm by avoiding the emotional distress that the boy was previously facing.
- This experience taught me the importance of adaptability and creative problem-solving in a fast-paced environment. I developed valuable communication skills that allowed me to connect with service users on a personal level and enabled adaptability in both verbal and non-verbal communication styles for people of all ages/backgrounds, contributing to their overall positive experience.
- This is something I owe greatly to being part of such an amazing MDT where we were able to utilize our individual skillsets and competencies, leaning on each other for support when needed.
- As a future medical student (hopefully), I recognize the significance of teamwork in overcoming challenges. These experiences will serve as templates for navigating complex situations in medical school and, eventually, as a doctor working within a multidisciplinary team.
Resilience
- In my gap year, I undertook a research project that demanded a high level of resilience. I was working on a systematic review and meta-analysis, and one of the challenges I faced was finding suitable software for the analysis. This alone required a lot of research and experimentation with different software attempting to find the most suitable, as I wanted to ensure the accuracy and reliability of my findings.
- Another aspect that tested my resilience was the process of getting the research paper published. I encountered multiple hurdles, from understanding the submission requirements of different journals to facing rejections after submitting my work. Journal feedback often required me to make amendments, and despite making the necessary changes, I continued to face rejection.
- Rather than letting these setbacks demotivate me, I used them as opportunities for growth. I was self-aware and knew I needed some guidance on how to get published and sought out feedback from friends undergoing PhDs who had experience in research. It was a challenging and iterative process, but I was determined to make my work accessible to the wider academic community.
- Eventually, my persistence paid off, and the paper was accepted for publication. This experience taught me the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. It reinforced my belief in the value of perseverance, adaptability, and continuous improvement. Going through this process not only enhanced my research and analytical skills but also strengthened my ability to navigate challenges in a composed and determined manner.
- I am aware medical school and life as a doctor is demanding and resilience is important in providing the best care for patients as there will be setbacks and complex cases that require the adaptability and persistence that I have displayed during my time writing my research paper.
- The dedication to continuous improvement aligns with the NHS value of striving for excellence. My experience of refining my research paper based on feedback and persisting until publication reflects a commitment to quality that is foundational to the NHS’s mission.
Resilience (WEX)
- The COVID-19 pandemic led to a lot of challenges and obtaining medical work experience was a difficult one. I demonstrated resilience when searching for this invaluable experience. Faced with numerous rejections due to the policies of NHS trusts, I acknowledged the importance of adapting to the circumstances and learning from setbacks.
- To navigate through this challenging period, I proactively sought alternative avenues to gain insight into the medical field. I engaged in virtual opportunities such as observe GP and the brighton and sussex virtual work experience. I also and reached out to healthcare professionals that I met when working as a vaccinator.
- Each rejection was indirectly building me with the confidence to keep asking and seeking out opportunities and eventually paid off with me securing 2 additional work experiences in surgery and prison medicine.
- This experience has highlighted my adaptability but has also reinforced my commitment to pursuing medicine. I recognize that the ability to persevere during challenging times and this is a skill that’s crucial for both medical school and a future as a doctor, where challenges are inevitable, for example, when breaking bad news to patients.
- Resilience is a key attribute in delivering optimal patient care as you cannot allow yourself to give up when faced with hurdles but rather you should find a way to work around them.
Empathy (book)
- During the pandemic, I combined my passion for writing with a deep commitment to aiding other – something that has equipped me with invaluable skills for a future in medicine.
- Creating a 5-star rated book on mental health during such difficult times, I sought to not only raise awareness but also to extend a compassionate hand to those grappling with mental health issues.
- Emphasizing empathy throughout, I incorporated helplines within the book, recognizing the vital role of immediate support. This act was driven by my understanding of the inherent stigma surrounding mental health and a genuine desire to demonstrate that mental illness isn’t limited to a ‘certain’ type of person. By showcasing it’s universal impact, I aimed to foster empathy and break down stereotypes that can hinder seeking help.
- Keeping the NHS value of ‘Respect and Dignity’ in mind, I created a resource that respects the diverse needs of individuals facing mental health challenges. This not only contributes to a more inclusive society but also reflects my commitment to providing patient-centred care.
- The ability to connect with patients on a compassionate level, to understand the unique aspects of their mental health journey, aligns seamlessly with the NHS value of ‘Working Together for Patients.’ The commitment to a holistic understanding of health, inclusive of mental well-being, is vital in providing the best possible care for patients.
- My writing acts as a template for my future as a doctor, emphasizing empathy, consistency, and a commitment to reducing barriers to care. These skills enable me to contribute meaningfully to the NHS values and to the well-being of future patients.
Empathy (WEX)
- During school visits when working as a vaccinator, I was faced with a situation that highlighted the importance of empathy and communication skills. A young girl, with significant self-harm wounds, confided in me and trusted me with her vulnerabilities.
- In navigating this delicate scenario, maintaining confidentiality, and prioritizing the patient’s best interest tested my professionalism.
- I recognized that her physical wounds were symbolic of emotional struggles and one of the NHS values is putting patients first. Here, I maintained open communication and utilized my non-verbal communication skills to display empathy and show her that her worries were being listened to. I let her know that I really value her autonomy and ability to make her own decisions however, I stressed the importance of escalating this situation to ensure she has the right support available for her.
- This involved navigating her concerns on why she didn’t want this to be shared and showing empathy was crucial to guarantee the pillar of beneficence was followed through. Eventually, we came to a collaborative decision and escalated this to my supervisor because I was self-aware and knew I was out of my depth.
- I feel as though I displayed the NHS value of respect and dignity as I carried out empathetic communication by considering her mental health and emotions in relation to her overall wellbeing.
- Reflecting on this, I feel the ability to connect with patients on an emotional level and handling ethical challenges is essential in providing holistic and patient-centred care – something that will no doubt be needed during medical school and life as a doctor.
Communication / Respect and Dignity
- During school visits when working as a vaccinator, I was faced with a situation that highlighted the importance of empathy and communication skills. A young girl, with significant self-harm wounds, confided in me and trusted me with her vulnerabilities.
- In navigating this delicate scenario, maintaining confidentiality, and prioritizing the patient’s best interest tested my professionalism.
- I recognized that her physical wounds were symbolic of emotional struggles and one of the NHS values is putting patients first. Here, I maintained open communication and utilized my non-verbal communication skills to display empathy and show her that her worries were being listened to.
- I let her know that I really value her autonomy and ability to make her own decisions however, I stressed the importance of escalating this situation to ensure she has the right support available for her.
- This involved navigating her concerns on why she didn’t want this to be shared and showing empathy was crucial to guarantee the pillar of beneficence was followed through. Eventually, we came to a collaborative decision and escalated this to my supervisor because I was self-aware and knew I was out of my depth.
- I feel as though I displayed the NHS value of respect and dignity as I carried out empathetic communication by considering her mental health and emotions in relation to her overall wellbeing.
- Reflecting on this, I feel the ability to connect with patients on an emotional level and handling ethical challenges is essential in providing holistic and patient-centred care – something that will no doubt be needed during medical school and life as a doctor.
Morals
- Where I work, there’s a homeless man who often sits outside. Over time, our interactions evolved from simple gestures of buying him food to building a meaningful friendship.
- This experience has been deeply rooted in my moral beliefs. I believe that compassion and empathy are essential components of our humanity. The decision to extend a helping hand reflects a commitment to my own personal morals.
- The honesty and integrity in understanding the humanity of another person, is a fundamental aspect of ethical conduct and is in line with the ethical principles of beneficence and non-maleficence as if I had chosen not to help him, it could have been that he didn’t eat that day which could have a knock on effect on his health in the long term.
- The NHS principle of compassion goes beyond clinical settings. By buying food and building a friendship, I reflected the NHS values of treating every individual with kindness and understanding.
- As a doctor, my role would extend beyond the clinical environment. It is associated with commitment to the well-being of the community. This is a reminder that healthcare is not only about treating illnesses but also about addressing the factors that impact health.
- Beyond the personal connection, advocating for vulnerable populations is a responsibility we carry as healthcare professionals. This was something I saw in action during my work experience at a prison primary care facility as regardless of an individual’s situation, they are entitled to healthcare.
- This is in line with the ethical pillar of justice where everyone’s needs should be met and if I have the means to do so, it is my ethical obligation to do so.
- In conclusion, this experience has been a powerful reminder that our actions, even seemingly small ones, can have a profound impact. As a medical student/doctor it is essential to display values of compassion, probity, and advocacy, recognizing that every person we encounter has a story that deserves acknowledgment and respect.
Insight into medicine
- Being aware of what you plan on dedicating your life to is a must and is a crucial part of making informed decisions when it comes to career aspirations and life in general.
- From working as a vaccinator to shadowing doctors in various settings (both in-person and virtually), I have gained experience into what the field entails.
- Faced with numerous rejections for work experience due to the covid-19 policies of NHS trusts, I acknowledged the importance of adapting to the circumstances and learning from setbacks by displaying resilience when seeking out work experience opportunities.
- One significant moment in my journey was witnessing doctors holistically caring for patients, especially during emergency resuscitation procedures. This reaffirmed my belief that medicine is not just a career but a calling.
- Shadowing a prison doctor shed light on the role of a doctor as an advocate, aligning with NHS values of inclusivity and the ethical principle of justice by ensuring equitable healthcare distribution.
- Observing a surgeon take charge of a surgical team and inspire residents provided me with insights into the leadership and responsibility integral to a doctor’s role. This experience emphasized the importance of effective communication, motivating team members, and maintaining composure in high-pressure situations and the leadership skills doctors possess that go hand in hand with the level of responsibility they posess.
- As a vaccinator working within a multidisciplinary team, I gained hands-on clinical experience that demonstrated NHS values such as working together for patient care. Dealing with individuals who were apprehensive about needles highlighted the significance of empathy, adaptability, and communication—both verbal and non-verbal—in establishing trust and acting in their best interests. I even gained insight into the importance of audits and managed to conduct one myself.
- These experiences have deepened my commitment to pursuing medicine. Collaborating not only with the multidisciplinary team but also with patients, respecting their autonomy, has been a source of immense satisfaction.
- To sum up, I recognize that the ability to persevere during challenging times and this is a skill that’s crucial for both medical school and a future as a doctor, where challenges are inevitable, for example, when breaking bad news to patients.
Critical thinking
- I recall a young girl who was left alone by her mum, and she had passed out post-vaccination. When she gained consciousness, I offered her some biscuits to help with her blood sugar levels and she accepted. Her mum returned and verbally started abusing the young girl.
- Me and my colleague noticed that the girl was very talkative when she was alone with us but as soon as her mum returned, she was quiet. I stayed with the family whilst my colleague went to raise a safeguarding concern but at the same time, the family was adamant that they were leaving.
- I walked out with the young girl and managed to get her date of birth and full name reassuring her as best as I could.
- I displayed initiative by deciding it would best for her to go home to not make her mum suspicious of anything as that could have potentially led to the girl in a more difficult situation at home. I spoke to my manager afterwards and was able to locate the young girls NHS number based on the name and DOB I managed to get, and my manager reassured me that she would be in touch with the girls GP to raise this concern. I was self-aware in knowing that I did the best I could in the moment.
- Here, I showed initiative and critical thinking by acting in the best interest of the girl and avoiding additional harm by allowing her to go home. I also took initiative by getting her details so that further support could be made available via the GP.
- I learnt the importance of acting in the patients best interest (following the pillars of beneficence and non-maleficence) and how my duty of care extended beyond the vaccination centre to ensure her wellbeing.
- The importance of being able to make quick decisions and thinking on your feet is crucial in medicine as lifechanging decisions will be required in emergency situations when leading the MDT as a doctor.
- The NHS constitution states that the patient should be at the heart of what the NHS does and during med school/career as a doctor, it’s extremely important to be self-aware and to escalate the situation when you feel out of your depth.
Skills important in teamwork / Skills that are important to have.
- I do think several skills are important but the 3 most notable skills to me are communication, team working and self-awareness.
- Communication skills are important for building connections and interpersonal relationships by aiding in the development of mutual respect and growth. I also believe communication underpins almost every other skill. For example, utilizing empathy to resolve conflict and helping collaboration with others. In medicine, being able to communicate and build rapport with patients and the MDT is essential to ensure trust is formed which can lead to better patient care.
- Team working is important for achieving common goals by utilizing various skillsets that are present. It helps to build problem-solving skills whilst enabling the creation of a support network. Personal growth can come from teamwork as it can trigger you to consider alternative perspectives you usually wouldn’t have considered. This is necessary in medicine because as a doctor, you will be collaborating with various healthcare professionals daily when working towards the NHS value of commitment to quality of care.
- Self-awareness is important for personal growth and its arguably the very foundation in understanding yourself, your emotions, strengths, and weaknesses. It’s important in ensuring that you work within your competency whilst also building resilience when setting personal goals. It aids in better decision-making skills. Competency is one of the 6Cs of the NHS and knowing when to ask for help is necessary and follow the pillars of beneficence and non-maleficence as it can help avoid any mistakes being made. This then improves patient care and ensures the best possible outcomes are achieved.
- To conclude, communication, team working and self-awareness skills are essential for the successful collaboration in the medical field. They ensure the patient is always at the heart of the NHS (as stated by the NHS constitution) and ensure the best quality of care is provided for patients.
Integrity
- Integrity is crucial because it reflects an individual’s commitment to honesty, ethics, and moral principles.
- the NHS emphasizes integrity as it is important in ensuring patients’ well-being and maintaining public trust
- I showed integrity during my time as a vaccinator when an elderly gentleman moved whilst I was administering his vaccine.
- this led to a needle stick injury and not all of the dose was administered which could have put the gentleman at risk by going against the pillars of beneficence and non-maleficence if left undealt with.
- I showed integrity by owning up and accepting responsibility for this and seeking help from the medic in charge by asking if he could have another dose to ensure he was fully protected, especially as he was elderly.
- here my honesty and integrity was crucial to ensure patient safety and protection from Covid. This was in line with the pillar of justice, ensuring everyone receives the same protection & this aligns with the NHS value of ensuring quality of care.
- In this context, my experience in completing an audit further reinforces the importance of integrity.
- this is important as both a medical student and a Doctor, because taking responsibility is essential for maintaining the public’s confidence in the profession and abiding by one’s own moral and ethical standards.
- The ability to recognize and rectify errors mirrors the commitment to transparency and accountability as integrating audit into professional practice contributes to ongoing improvement, aligning with the NHS value of continuous quality enhancement
Why is resilience important in medicine?
- Resilience is crucial for doctors and medical students due to the demanding and often stressful nature of the medical profession.
- The medical field is known for its high-pressure environments, long working hours, and the need to make critical decisions. Resilience helps individuals cope with stress, bounce back from setbacks, and maintain their well-being in challenging situations.
- Doctors often encounter patients facing serious illnesses, complex medical conditions, and emotional distress. Resilience enables healthcare professionals to provide compassionate and effective care, even in emotionally challenged situations.
- Medicine is a dynamic field that constantly evolves with new research, technologies, and treatment modalities. Resilient individuals can adapt to changes, embrace new information, and continue learning throughout their careers.
- Medicine involves a high level of responsibility, and errors can have serious consequences. Resilience helps doctors and medical students learn from mistakes, improve their skills, and move forward without being overwhelmed by guilt or fear.
The prevalence of mental health issues in the medical profession underscores the importance of resilience. Developing strong coping mechanisms helps doctors and medical students manage stress, reduce the risk of burnout, and maintain good mental health by having a good work-life balance.
- Long Training Period: Medical education and training are lengthy and rigorous processes. Resilience helps perseverance through the demanding curriculum, and exams, helping you to stay focused.
- In summary, resilience is a vital quality for doctors and medical students as it empowers them to navigate the unique challenges of the medical profession, promote personal well-being, and deliver high-quality care to their patients.
High suicide contemplation rates in medical school - why? How can they be prevented?
- Academic Pressure: Medical education is rigorous, demanding, and competitive. The pressure to perform well academically can contribute to stress and anxiety.
- High Expectations and perfectionism: Many medical students enter the field with high expectations and a desire to excel. The fear of not meeting these expectations (either ones they have for themselves or those that others have for them) can lead to imposter syndrome.
- Clinical Pressures: Dealing with human suffering, life-and-death decisions, and the responsibility of patient care can take a toll on a student’s emotional well-being.
- Isolation and Burnout: The demanding nature of medical education can lead to social isolation and burnout. Long hours, sleep deprivation, and the intensity of the workload can contribute to a sense of exhaustion and isolation.
- Financial Strain: Medical education often comes with significant financial burdens. The cost of tuition, living expenses, and the potential for student loan debt can create additional stress and worry.
- Stigma Surrounding Mental Health: There is a persistent stigma in the medical community around mental health issues. Fear of judgment or concerns about professional repercussions may discourage students from seeking help when needed.
- Lack of Work-Life Balance: The demanding nature of medical training often makes it challenging for students to maintain a healthy work-life balance. This imbalance can contribute to stress and impact mental well-being.
- Lack of Support Systems: Some students may feel a lack of support from peers, faculty, or mentors due to the competitive nature of med school. A sense of isolation without a strong support network can be challenging.
SOLUTIONS:
- providing accessible mental health resources, implementing support programs. Many schools have pastoral services but some may feel apprehensive to use these.
- reducing stigma, and fostering a culture that prioritizes the well-being of students and professionals in the medical field. Open communication and support can play a vital role in preventing and addressing mental health challenges in medical education.
- helping with financial burdens as many students find it hard to work alongside med school. support with essential medical school supplies such as stethoscopes can help relieve some of the financial burden.
When was the NHS founded and what were the founding principles?
- Founded in 1948 with 3 core principles:
1.Everyones needs should be met
2.Free at the point of delivery
3.Based upon clinical need