CHEST Guidelines-Sympathy-for-the-Intern

Sympathy-for-the-Intern_chest

Pdf Summary

The poem "Sympathy for the Intern," written by Geoffrey Rubin, MD, is a lyrical reflection on the daily life of a medical intern, capturing the intense experiences and transformation that occur. Rubin, who is in his final year of a cardiology fellowship at Columbia University Medical Center, draws from his personal journey and experience becoming a mentor to an intern.<br /><br />The poem begins with the early morning scene, as the intern is greeted by the sunrise. The recurring theme of healing is introduced through an inscription over an archway at the old Presbyterian Hospital, highlighting the spiritual and hopeful aspects of medicine. The day unfolds into chaos, with the intern facing numerous tasks: examining patients, preparing presentations, and attending rounds. Despite the frenetic pace, often interrupted by emergency pages and critical situations, the intern gradually finds a rhythm amidst the turmoil. <br /><br />Rubin portrays the intern as both humbled by the gravity of illness and death yet adapting efficiently to his demanding role. The hospital's frantic energy turns into a focused hum for the intern, reflecting both personal growth and professional development. As the day concludes, the intern walks home, accompanied by a sense of hope and reverence for the world around him, symbolized by the "arcing moon."<br /><br />The poem not only captures the challenges faced by medical interns but also the profound transformation and resilience they develop. Through vivid imagery and emotive language, Rubin underscores the blend of chaos and harmony that characterizes a day in the life of a medical intern.

Keywords

medical intern

Geoffrey Rubin

cardiology fellowship

Columbia University

healing

Presbyterian Hospital

personal growth

professional development

transformation

resilience