What does a typical day look like for you?
As an academic pediatric otolaryngologist, I have clinic and operating room days. I typically begin my day on a clinical day by reviewing patient charts and preparing for the scheduled appointments. The day involves a mix of outpatient clinics, where I see children and their families to address various ear, nose, and throat concerns. These clinical sessions may include routine check-ups, consultations for hearing loss and complex ear issues, and discussions about surgical options. I also work with the Microtia multidisciplinary team, including audiologists, speech therapists, and nurses, to provide comprehensive care. A typical operating day for me begins with reviewing the day's surgical schedule, which may include common pediatric ENT surgeries like tonsillectomies and adenoidectomies to more complex interventions such as ear reconstruction and hearing aid implantation.
What is the greatest challenge you faced in your career? How did you overcome it?
One of the greatest challenges I have faced is dealing with the unique emotional and psychological aspects of treating young patients and their families. Children often present with complex medical conditions, and their care requires medical expertise, sensitivity, patience, and empathy. Additionally, communicating effectively with children, who may be scared or uncooperative, and their parents, who may be anxious or overwhelmed, can be challenging. To overcome this challenge, I have often employed a multidisciplinary approach that involves collaborating closely with pediatricians, speech therapists, audiologists, and child life specialists. It is crucial to build strong relationships with patients and their families, establish trust, and provide clear explanations about diagnoses and treatment plans.
What is one book every young person pursuing a career in medicine should read?
One book that I believe every young person pursuing a career in medicine should read is "Better: A Surgeon's Notes on Performance" by Dr. Atul Gawande. The book offers a compelling exploration of the quest for excellence in medicine. Through a series of captivating anecdotes and thought-provoking insights drawn from his experiences as a surgeon, Dr. Gawande delves into the complexities of medical practice and the pursuit of improvement. He examines the importance of embracing innovation, learning from mistakes, and fostering a continuous learning and growth culture in medicine. "Better" challenges young aspiring physicians to aspire to greatness in their practice, to constantly seek ways to enhance their skills, and to approach their work with humility and dedication. Dr. Gawande's profound reflections are an inspiring reminder of the transformative power of striving for excellence in medicine, urging young individuals to embark on their careers with a commitment to continual improvement and the relentless pursuit of better outcomes for their patients.
Learn more about Dr. Liu.
