Other Side of the Drape! – Life improvement strategies for the surgeon who wants more … in 10 minutes – Episode 122

Pump the brakes on your week and take 10 minutes to make your life as a surgeon just a little better…

Jeff welcomes to the podcast physician and physician coach, Scott Markowitz, MD.

When working in the OR, situations sometimes arise that activate the people in the room (whether it be surgeons, nurses, anesthesiologists, or others). That activation can be caused by a variety of issues from inefficiencies, to scheduling conflicts. Once activated, people often carry that with them into the next experience. 

The same thing happens on the other side of the drape which can cause situations to become increasingly tense. When that happens it’s important to take a step back and realize that everyone ultimately has the same goal - to provide excellent care to the patient.

What steps does Scott suggest we take to improve the environment in the operating room when it feels like parties are at odds with one another?

• Step 1 - Take a Moment. Step back from the situation and try to evaluate it objectively. Recognize if you or the other party is being negatively impacted by outside forces (perhaps you didn’t sleep well the night before), and understand that you both ultimately want what’s best for the patient.
• Step 2 - Build Relationships. This doesn’t happen overnight, but if you build up  good professional relationships with your team, there will likely be less friction in the room. When you have a long-standing rapport, you can recognize when your colleague is being sarcastic or when they’re having a bad day.
• Step 3 - Communicate Openly & Effectively. Honest communication among colleagues is also key inside and outside the OR. If something happens that activates you, don’t let it fester. Communicate your concerns in a professional manner.

Most importantly, PRACTICE understanding the other side of the drape!

BIO:

Scott D. Markowitz, MD, MSOL, FAAP, BCC (he, him, his) is the Chief Executive Officer of Physician Leadership, LLC, and serves as a Leadership Coach with the Chimera Leadership Group. In his clinical career, Dr. Markowitz held the position of Professor of Anesthesiology and Vice-Chair for Professional Development and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Washington University in St. Louis. There, he spearheaded the establishment of an office dedicated to measuring departmental culture, engagement, and wellbeing. Dr. Markowitz has been instrumental in producing and sponsoring programs aimed at fostering engagement, resilience, professional development, and a more diverse and inclusive leadership  environment. He co-chairs the subcommittee on harassment, incivility, and disrespect for the American Society of Anesthesiologists, and serves on the advisory board for the Women’s Empowerment and Leadership Initiative of the Society for Pediatric Anesthesia. In this role, he co-developed their leadership curriculum and chairs the curriculum Committee.

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PRACTICE Your Best!