CHEST Guidelines-THE-CLINIC

THE-CLINIC_chest (1)

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In "The Clinic," Christopher Worsnop, a respiratory and sleep physician, reflects on the cynicism sometimes seen in young doctors who become jaded after a brief time in practice. His poem captures the complexity and emotions involved in patient care through the lens of a particular case: a man with lymphangioleiomyomatosis, COPD, and pulmonary arterial hypertension. The narrative delves into the patient's vulnerabilities, marked by his apprehension and social isolation due to the scourge of smoking.<br /><br />Worsnop emphasizes the importance of viewing every patient as interesting, contrasting this with a young doctor's more cynical perspective. Despite the young doctor seeing potential for a publication from the unique and challenging case, Worsnop focuses on the human aspect, dedicating time to listen and provide comfort to the patient, highlighting the patient's guilt and isolation.<br /><br />Through his poem, Worsnop illustrates the dichotomy between clinical curiosity and the essence of humane medical practice, advocating for empathy and attentiveness amid rigorous clinical demands. His touching portrayal serves as both a reminder and inspiration to maintain compassion and patience in the medical profession, encouraging a shift away from cynicism and towards a more holistic approach to patient care.

Keywords

medical cynicism

patient care

empathy in medicine

lymphangioleiomyomatosis

COPD

pulmonary arterial hypertension

clinical curiosity

holistic approach

compassion in healthcare

Christopher Worsnop