How do you know medicine is the right course for you?

Spending a moth at a hospital taught many insightful lessons from the staff who allow the ward to operate effectively. Thedecision making, on ward rounds, became evident as they tried to devise the best support for patients and I witnessed how they were treated with respect and dignity. It also became clear how important patient communication was, as I learnt how patients must feel at ease. This showed me the awareness staff had when assessing each patient, as they have differing social, mental and physical needs. This made me realise how even if someone may look healthy, there are aspects which may be as harmful as their physical well-being such as anxiety and stress. This became even more apparent whilst spending a fortnight on a mental health ward where a patient had Schizophrenia. This made me realise how doctors must look beyond physique to ensure they are well.Also, I was able to talk to patients on the ward. This was insightful because I was able to understand the contrasting needs of each patient whilst having a 'good chat' with them. I was humbled by the courage and clarity of patients who talked about their illnesses. This is important because I was able to approach patients during anxious times of their life.Furthermore, this improved my confidence and communication skills as I learned how to talk compassionately to patients. Even with the unfortunate death of a patient, I had frequently talked to, it highlighted how I needed to be resilient as others had to be helped. I saw first-hand how important it was to show sympathy to staff members as well as family who may require support at this time in their lives. Moreover, I learnt how compassion is needed at every level of the patient's experience and whilst delivering food to patients I was able to feed them. This was something I was happy to do because I was helping patients in the best way I could. Similarly, when cleaning beds, I learnthow every aspect of hospital life enforced the patient’swellbeing such as using aseptic methods to clean.