Thread by @AmyOverend

It’s not often I post a thread tweet- I think I’ve done it once! But if you’re a doctor- I hope you take two minutes to read this!

To All Doctors.
Tonight was an interesting shift for me. It was an odd kind of night shift! I only had 2 admissions, which for me is a record low!

It meant that I had a bit more time tonight to sit and have a long chat with one of your colleagues. It opened my eyes much further to the amount of pressure you are all under at the moment, and that some of you are at the point of quitting medicine all together.

Here are 10 things that I need you to take away from the conversation I had tonight.

1. at some point in our careers- everyone has that- “I can’t do this” moment. I promise you can, and you’re amazing for doing what you do.

2. It’s overwhelming, the job you do, you make huge decisions and that takes its toll mentally! It’s ok to say, I need some help! It’s not a failure.

3. You are as much a part of my team as any one! It doesn’t matter if you’re only with us for 6 months! For that 6 months- you’re family and we look after one another.

4. It’s ok to cry, and it’s ok to laugh. Sometimes one reaction may not always come at the right time- don’t worry! We’ve all been there

5. It’s ok to show vulnerability! We don’t see it as a flaw, we see it as you being human! All we want to do is support you to be the best that you can be.

6. If you’re overwhelmed, come sit in my office! You don’t have to say anything- sometimes just sitting with someone quietly, who just understands a look, is all that you need to press reset.

7. Your compassion and skills aren’t ever underestimated by us! We know you can’t spend as much time as you want to with your patients- but we see the small acts you do when you can! We love you for them!

8. I will be your champion when you’re attempting a tricky procedure for the first time! And if you don’t get it straight away, I’ll be championing you every other time you do it, until you feel like your own champion.

9. If you feel like you’re burning out and have nowhere to turn- we’re right here! We’re a huge support network for you, and we know when things are getting too much. Don’t let a burn out be the reason you don’t want to do your job anymore

10. Finally- if you take anything away, whether you’re fresh out of med school, or a seasoned professor- know that first and foremost, as a nurse, I am your friend, your confident, your support and your biggest advocate! I will always be here if you need me

Yours faithfully.

Your friend,

Amy

A nurse!