A collection of popular content from CMAJBlogs.com and CMAJ’s digital media
Possibly scar tissue, possibly nothing, POSSIBLY LUNG CANCER
I spent the next ten days living my normal life externally but living an internal nightmare. Every waking moment was filled with anxiety, stress and tension. … My doctor reported that the CT scan revealed nodules that were “highly suspicious for primary lung malignancy.” He was visibly upset to give me this news. … I could tell that he was trying to find a balance between managing his own stress and trying to give me the confidence that I would receive the best care. He did an amazing job of a difficult job, and I am grateful for his sensitivity and support.
Peggy Cumming
peggycumming.blogspot.ca
PHYSICIAN HEALTH: Looking out for each other
I took a deep breath. “Thanks. Thanks a lot. Yes I’ve been depressed. But I’m getting better. I am better. Nearly.” He sat and waited. There was a short silence, then I told him the full story … of how hard it had been to return to work. … I told him of how I had come to work in a taxi for a crucial external review meeting, left early because I was in too much pain to concentrate, and found myself sitting on the pavement in floods of tears when my taxi didn’t arrive.
Trisha Greenhalgh @trishgreenhalgh
NO, don’t touch the DEAD BODY!
There is a methodical sequence for putting on the personal protective equipment, always doubly examined by another experienced colleague prior to entering the isolation wards. Breathing is difficult through the mask within the hood. Within seconds, I can feel sweat pouring out my entire body. Safety is our top priority: we need to stay safe in order to help others. Health care workers are among the highest at risk to contract the Ebola virus.
Azaria Marthyman
Samaritan’s Purse