What must a medical student learn?

Postgrad Med J. 2024 Nov 19:qgae158. doi: 10.1093/postmj/qgae158. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Studying medicine is not a passive activity; it demands dedication, curiosity, and continuous learning through observation, reading, and repetition. The Latin root of "student" reflects eagerness, and similarly, "aluno" derives from "alere," meaning "to nourish," symbolizing the nourishment of knowledge. As students, it is crucial to understand not just the scientific knowledge but also the human side of medicine. Learning goes beyond textbooks. Patients themselves are the greatest source of wisdom. Medicine is the art of care, offering comfort and understanding of what is hidden beneath the surface. Growth in this field requires seeing beyond the obvious and developing strategies to understand patients' stories. The medical student may develop strategies to know how to listen, build trust, and empathize with patients, guiding them through their fears. Carrying their burdens and interpreting their unspoken words is essential for providing both medical care and comfort.

Keywords: doctor-patient relationship; empathy; medical education; teaching.