Tips on things new doctors should do in their first few weeks working in the UK
Tips on things new doctors should do in their first few weeks working in the UK:
Collected and written by: Mohamed Hassan
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Starting Your Medical Career: Top Things to Do as a New Doctor in the UK
You've graduated, registered with the GMC, and landed your first job as a doctor in the UK - congratulations! This is an exciting next step in your medical training. However, these first few weeks can also feel overwhelming. As you adjust to the new professional environment, here are some tips on things you should do to set yourself up for success:
Get to Know Your Colleagues
- Introduce yourself to fellow doctors, nurses, and allied healthcare professionals you will work with. Learn their names, roles, and how you can collaborate effectively.
- Ask about communication preferences (like using first names versus surnames).
- Build rapport by being friendly and showing interest in their work.
Shadow Other Doctors
- Arrange shadowing sessions with experienced doctors to learn practical aspects not taught in medical school.
- Observe their workflow, interactions with patients/colleagues, use of systems like EMR.
- Gain insight into organizational processes and unwritten rules.
Familiarize Yourself with Systems
- If your trust uses electronic records, get trained and comfortable navigating the system.
- Learn how to access test results, transfer patient records, make referrals etc.
- Save colleagues' numbers on your phone for easy consultation.
- Read staff manuals cover to cover to understand policies and procedures.
Learn Time Management
- Speak with colleagues for tips on balancing patient loads and charting.
- Use organizers and planners to stay on top of deadlines and required tasks.
- Be mindful of taking breaks and not over-extending yourself.
Ask Questions!
- Don't shy away from asking colleagues for clarification on processes, especially safety issues.
- Admit when you are unsure and need more training. Patient safety comes first.
- Ask about unwritten norms before inadvertently breaking them.
By taking proactive steps like these, you can get up to speed professionally and make the most of your first few weeks as a new doctor! Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional tips to share.
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