I have a new lecture I give in the SICU on Fridays and it has nothing to do with traumatic brain injury, hyponatremia or sepsis.
I’ve called it my “internship survival pack.”
First, it requires food for an active audience (if you bring food, they may come. And stay.) 1/
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Food is Medicine
You have to eat. I eat ~ 2 breakfasts. The 1st might be a protein bar or shake.
The 2nd one is substantial, in case it’s your last meal until dinner.
Unless you enjoy grocery shopping, have it delivered (many markets use pick-up services or delivery). 2/
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The List
Is golden. It cannot be lost.
It can be folded, checked off, colored. Whatever it is, whatever works for you, is the best for you.
Prioritize by urgency and time. Urgent consults, scans, labs first. The TPN shop typically closes early afternoon. 3/
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Reading
“Read a chapter a day” works for some but not at all. Some of us learners prefer video or audio. I have my own books I ❤️, but try to stick to one that helps with
1) diagnosis, 2) work-up and 3) management (including operative steps). E-versions are easier to access. 4/
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Listening While you Work(Out)
I’m biased but I love podcasts. It’s the best way to multitask and learn while doing laundry, running, and driving home. 5/
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Getting the Cheat Codes
Reach out to the interns from your next rotation before you start. Find out what works best - rounding times, equipment to bring, work-flow, most common operations and note templates. Prepare to immerse yourself into that world. 6/
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Call your Parents or Friends when Driving Home
Sometimes it’s the best way to disconnect from work and to connect with the rest of the world.
We all need this. 7/
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Condense your Hobbies
If you enjoyed 3 hobbies, maybe you have time to truly enjoy one right now.
Make it count, schedule in that time for that kayaking, yoga, or culinary exploration.
Your passions ground you. 8/
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Forgive yourself. I remember all of my mistakes and celebrate less of my successes.
-A Former Intern
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