Vol. 4 no. 1, 2011

New Doctor

The latest issue of New Doctor focuses on working in anaesthesia. It includes personal insights into what it is like to work in the specialty, from consultant anaesthetist Dr Aidan O’Donnell and trainee anaesthetist Dr Chris MacDonald.

Fundamental to being a success in anaesthetics is the ability to work well in a team, not only to ensure patient safety and efficiency, but to be able to access support and achieve job satisfaction.

Central to team success is understanding your colleague’s needs, so tips on how to make your colleague’s lives easier are invaluable. Read Dr Nina Schulze-Solce’s article on what to do to help your colleagues before you leave for the weekend.

Seeking support and advice in the work place is crucial; we are human after all – whether this support is in your day-to-day work, or your professional and personal development or health.

Dr Deborah Bowman’s article on power and responsibility sets about empowering doctors to make good ethical choices by not being afraid to speak out. There is no time more important to remember this message than when a junior doctor has started work as an F1 or F2.

Dr Nida Ahmed and Dr Yasmin Akram explore what it is like for foundation doctors to grow and address their “fear factors”.

I hope you enjoy this edition and don’t forget we are always pleased to receive your comments and ideas.

Dr Angelique Mastihi
Editor-in-chief
MPS Medicolegal Adviser.