The Unseen Lessons of Crisis: how Facing the Unthinkable Changed my Practice of Medicine
The world feels increasingly unpredictable, and as physicians, we often train for a vast spectrum of medical emergencies. Though, nothing truly prepares you for the sheer terror and chaos of an active shooter event. I experienced this firsthand, and the experience fundamentally reshaped my understanding of what it means to be a doctor, extending far beyond clinical skills.
It’s a difficult topic, but one we must address. Here’s what I learned, and how it’s impacted the way I approach patient care.
Beyond the Biology: Recognizing the Human Impact of Trauma
Traditionally, medical training focuses heavily on the physiological aspects of illness and injury. You learn to diagnose, treat, and manage physical ailments. But a crisis like an active shooter event throws a glaring spotlight on the profound psychological and emotional toll trauma takes on individuals and communities.
I quickly realized that addressing the visible wounds was only the first step. The invisible wounds – the anxiety, the fear, the post-traumatic stress – demanded equal, if not greater, attention. This realization shifted my focus toward a more holistic approach to healing.
The Power of Presence: Being Fully With Your Patients
During the event,and in the aftermath,I discovered the immense power of simply being present with patients. Often, there was little I could do in the immediate moments – no medication to administer, no procedure to perform.
Rather, offering a calm voice, a steady hand, and a listening ear proved to be profoundly impactful.You don’t always need to fix things; sometimes, people just need someone to witness their pain and acknowledge their fear.I’ve found that this principle extends to everyday practice.
Communication is Paramount: Clarity in the Face of Chaos
Effective communication is always crucial in medicine, but it becomes absolutely vital during a crisis. Clear, concise instructions, delivered with empathy and reassurance, can make all the difference.
I learned the importance of avoiding medical jargon and speaking in plain language, ensuring everyone understands what’s happening and what to expect. This lesson has translated into my daily interactions with patients, helping me build trust and improve adherence to treatment plans.
The Importance of Teamwork: Relying on Each other
Responding to an active shooter event requires seamless teamwork. You quickly learn who you can rely on, and the importance of clear roles and responsibilities.
I witnessed astonishing acts of courage and collaboration among my colleagues. This experience reinforced the understanding that medicine is rarely a solo endeavor. Building strong relationships with your team, fostering open communication, and supporting each other are essential for providing the best possible care.
Self-Care Isn’t selfish: Protecting Your Own Well-being
Witnessing and responding to such a traumatic event took a significant toll on my own mental and emotional health. I initially struggled with feelings of guilt, helplessness, and anxiety.
It became clear that self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. You cannot effectively care for others if you are not taking care of yourself. Prioritizing your own well-being – through exercise, mindfulness, therapy, or simply spending time with loved ones - is crucial for maintaining resilience and preventing burnout.
re-evaluating Priorities: What Truly Matters
The experience forced me to re-evaluate my priorities, both personally and professionally.I realized that while excelling in my career is important, it pales in comparison to the value of human connection, compassion, and making a positive impact on the lives of others.
This shift in perspective has brought a renewed sense of purpose to my practice. I now strive to approach each patient with greater empathy, understanding, and a commitment to providing truly patient-centered care.
