Postgraduate medical journal
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In "The Alternative Fairytale," I explore my journey as a cardiology registrar/fellow, a path influenced deeply by my early displacement from war-torn Sudan. This piece reflects on the interplay between my professional choices and personal identity amidst the backdrop of a male-dominated field and societal expectations. It examines how my roots in a family that once fled conflict have shaped my approach to medicine-emphasizing community, empathy, and a leadership style that diverges from traditional norms. Through this narrative, I aim to redefine and help others to reflect on what success looks like in cardiology and medicine; advocating for diversity in leadership styles and highlight the importance of personal background in shaping professional paths.
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To analyze the changes in the characteristics of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in the field of scarring over the last two decades, unveil the components of research waste (RW) within these RCTs, and identify targets for improvement. ⋯ This study delineates the changes in the characteristics of scar RCTs globally over the past two decades, uncovering a substantial burden of RW in scarring research. It provides an evidential reference for more rational planning of future scar-related RCTs and for minimizing RW.
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Navigating the labyrinthine process of securing higher speciality training poses formidable challenges for doctors in training. Achieving success in this endeavour demands more than a mere grasp of the prerequisites; it necessitates meticulous preparation and foresight. Dermatology, as a medical speciality, stands out on account of its appeal, encompassing a diverse patient population, expansive scope of work, work-life balance, a plethora of procedural variety, intellectual stimulation, and abundant research opportunities. ⋯ In light of this intensifying competition, this article seeks to furnish aspiring candidates with current and invaluable insights, serving as a guide to clinching a coveted national training number in their preferred speciality. While the landscape of higher speciality training encompasses numerous possibilities, this article concentrates primarily on dermatology, intertwining its guidance with relevance to other medical and surgical specialties. Through this exploration, readers will gain essential perspectives to navigate the intricacies of the application process and emerge as competitive contenders in the higher speciality training application process.
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Increased risk for adverse birth outcomes, long work hours, limited control over one's own schedule, and concern for making up time may color resident perceptions of their pregnancy during residency. We aimed to survey residents across four different specialties about their personal experiences with pregnancy during training. ⋯ We identified differences across specialties in policy and perceptions of pregnancy during training that impact residency quality of life. It is important to address disparities across specialties and ensure resident wellness. What is already known on this topic: Pregnancy during residency training is common. Previous literature suggests physicians experience higher rates of adverse pregnancy outcomes compared with the general population. Parental leave policies for residents are limited and/or unpublished. Further, little is known about how residents feel about informing their program and co-residents of their pregnancy and how they navigate antepartum and postpartum appointments and leave. What this study adds: We conducted an anonymous, nation-wide survey of residents training in 4 major medical specialties. We examine resident perceptions of informing their program leadership and co-residents of their pregnancy or their partner's pregnancy. We also measure birth outcomes, if there was a clear parental leave policy in place, and the length of parental leave taken by residents. How this study might affect research, practice, or policy: Our findings suggest that parental leave policies need attention and clarity across medical specialties. Further, the perceived or real culture surrounding the normative occurrence of pregnancy during residency could also be improved. Despite these concerns, residents encourage others to use the time during residency to grow their families. Our findings will encourage residency programs to make improvements towards a supportive, transparent, and equitable parental leave policy and parenting culture. Research question bullet points: 1) How do residents feel when informing their program leadership and their resident peers that they are pregnant during residency training? 2) How do residents across specialties differ in their approach to parental leave? 3) Are pregnant residents given clear parental leave policies across specialties?