A Lifesaving Experience: A Doctor's Battle with Overconfidence and Lessons Learned

In the medical profession, one cannot underestimate the impact of human error. This article shares a poignant story of a medical professional's experience that serves as a vital lesson in patient safety and the importance of diligent practice.

The Incident: A Turning Point in My Career

In February 2015, during my first year of medical school, I was involved in a critical moment where a young patient's life was at risk. It was at the Dr RML Hospital in Delhi, India, where I had the responsibility to assist in conducting a CT angiography procedure on a four-month-old infant with a complex cardiac condition - total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC).

Typically, during such procedures, the patient, especially a child, must remain still. Sedation is essential to ensure the child remains calm and cooperative. On this day, a junior resident, who was new and inexperienced in sedation, sought my assistance but felt hesitant. Overconfident and eager to help, I made the decision to administer midazolam, a sedative, without a safety precaution, the Ambu bag, which is crucial in case the child stops breathing.

The Critical Moment: A Lesson in Overconfidence

The moment I administered the medication, I witnessed an immediate and dramatic response. The child stopped breathing, and I was faced with a severe situation. Without the Ambu bag, my only means of intervention was mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. I quickly realized the gravity of the situation; the nearest department with an Ambu bag was a 2–3 minute walk away, making every second count.

With the child starting to show signs of bradycardia and worsening condition, I administered multiple mouth-to-mouth breaths and chest compressions. Despite my efforts, the child did not respond. Desperate, I carried the child on my shoulders and ran the remaining three-quarters of the distance to my department. Miraculously, after reaching the department, the child began to cry and breathe normally.

Lessons Learned: The Importance of Continuous Learning and Humility

This incident taught me a profound lesson about the dangers of overconfidence in medical practice. Had the child not survived, the consequences for me would have been unimaginable. Every medical professional encounters critical moments that serve as crucial learning experiences, and this one was no exception.

The experience underscored the importance of having a clear and comprehensive plan for all procedures, irrespective of one's level of expertise. It also reinforced the need for continuous learning and staying up-to-date with the latest best practices and safety measures in pediatric care.

The Aftermath and Reflection

Tragically, the lessons from this experience were not solely based on the immediate outcome. About three months later, the child tragically passed away due to the underlying complex cardiac condition and poor prognosis. This further compounded the weight of the experience on me, as I was reminded of the significant risks and responsibilities that come with my profession.

The story serves as a stark and sad reminder of the potential consequences of a single misstep and the importance of preparedness and humility in the field of medicine. It is hoped that sharing this experience will inspire others to reflect on their practices and to maintain a constant state of vigilance and improvement.

Conclusion

Every medical professional must be vigilant and recognize the importance of adhering to best practices. Overconfidence can lead to severe and often tragic consequences. This experience remains a significant milestone in my career, a reminder that the path to excellence in medicine is paved with continuous learning and a profound sense of responsibility.