The Hopeless Resident with Emotional Turbulence

In the healthcare profession, breaking bad news to a patient's family is one of the most challenging tasks. Despite the best efforts to provide optimal care, there are moments when outcomes are not as hoped. This situation often leaves healthcare providers feeling a profound sense of hopelessness and responsibility.

As if I can say: You tried everything you could, but you always felt wrong. At the same time, you are the one facing the patient’s family for breaking bad news. You feel hopeless, but you have those feelings of responsibility

The Emotional Burden

As a resident, you are trained to save lives and ensure the well-being of your patients. However, there are times when, despite all your efforts, the results are not favorable. This can lead to feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy. Facing the patient's family to deliver bad news can compound these emotions, making you feel like you have failed in your duty.

These feelings are natural and signify the deep empathy and care you have for your patients. However, it is crucial to recognize that these moments do not define your entire professional capability. Understanding and acknowledging these emotions can be the first step towards managing them effectively.

Banyak sekali emosi yang harus divalidasi. Sedih karena sudah merawat dan mengenal pasien, dan you already tried your best. Kecewa kepada diri sendiri karena kamu tidak bisa membuat pasien sembuh. Takut, takut disalahkan atas semua yang terjadi. Those feelings are valid. Pertanyaan selanjutnya apa yang bisa kulakukan? It really is stressful and part of me feel hopeless.

- Don’t blame it to yourself, you have to realize you are not walking alone. Even though sometimes you are the one to take the responsibility for breaking the bad news

- Kematian adalah Takdir dan ketetapan Allah SWT yang sudah ditentukan sejak awal penciptaan dan tidak dapat diubah oleh manusia. Kapan kita dilahirkan dan kapan kita meninggal, semua sudah ditentukan oleh Allah SWT.

- Semua dokter pasti ingin pasiennya sehat, pasti ingin pasiennya at least tahu sakitnya apa, pasti ingin pasiennya pulang ke rumah dengan keadaan yang lebih baik. Tidak ada yang dengan sengaja melakukan kesalahan ataupun berbuat sesuatu yang membahayakan pasien.

- Sedih, tentu saja, dalam waktu singkat kita merawat pasien dengan sangat intens, tetapi terkadang outcome tidak seperti yang kita inginkan.

Satu hal yang i was never prepared for, peran dokter yang tidak pernah dibahas selama saya kuliah yaitu Dokter sebagai perantara kematian dan bagaimana menghadapinya.