Uncertainty is a constant in healthcare from "summary" of When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
In medicine, as in life, uncertainty is a given. It lurks behind every diagnosis, every prognosis, every treatment plan. One can never be certain of the outcome, no matter how confident one may seem. This fact is a humbling reminder of the limits of human knowledge and the unpredictable nature of the human body. Despite our best efforts to understand and control disease, there will always be unknown variables at play. New symptoms may arise, unexpected complications may occur, and patient responses may defy prediction. The practice of medicine is an ever-evolving field, with new research challenging established beliefs and practices. As a physician, one must learn to navigate this sea of uncertainty with grace and humility. It requires a willingness to acknowledge the limits of one's knowledge and a readiness to adapt to new information. It also demands a deep sense of empathy and compassion for those who are grappling with the unknown. In the face of uncertainty, it can be tempting to retreat into a shell of false certainty, to pretend that one has all the answers. But this is a dangerous illusion that can lead to arrogance and complacency. True wisdom lies in accepting the uncertainty and embracing the challenge of navigating it with courage and compassion.- Uncertainty is not a weakness to be feared, but a reality to be embraced. It is a reminder of the complexity and mystery of the human body, and a call to humility and compassion in the face of our own limitations. In the end, it is our ability to confront uncertainty with grace and courage that defines us as physicians and as human beings.
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