Personal Narrative: A Personal Experience In Surgery

They call them “Tap-taps,” the brightly painted open back trucks that transport passengers through the dusty streets of Haiti. A traveler taps the side of the vehicle to board, pays, rides and then taps to jump off at a desired destination. For one particular man who sat with his face covered by a towel, that destination was the Diegue clinic in Port-au-Prince. All I knew from intake was that this patient was here for a foot issue. I noticed the adult sitting uncomfortably, a towel wrapping his foot, as his eyes scanned around the room. It was impossible to miss his foot that was putrid, oozing pus and grossly bloody. My personal translator told me he had seen this patient on many occasions covering his face, instead of his foot. I could hear …show more content…
I noticed there was some evidence of necrosis and that the ulcer had not made it to his bone. Moreover, the patient had no fever and normal blood pressure, thereby ruling out any signs of shock. I knew I could save this man’s leg by avoiding an amputation. Previously, I would have thought of surgery first. I called one of my peers, and she agreed with my findings. A rush of excitement surged through my veins. The adult patient started streaming with tears after I explained to him there would be no need for surgery. I proceeded with an Irrigation and Debridement and added oral antibiotics, and sent the patient home. It felt good knowing I had done everything in my power to bring hope and ultimately save this man’s …show more content…
I finally realized surgery is an art of soul and science, and not about cutting right away. It is about giving patients hope and knowing what it is best for that particular patient under that particular circumstance. For the next five years, I hope to join a surgical program at XXXX that will impart a solid foundation in the science and technical practice of medicine while establishing a personal connection with patients I see. As I look toward my future in surgery, I believe my determination and resilience will enable me to succeed and be a valuable asset to the profession. I expect that working in surgery will be equally fulfilling and look forward with