This is Going to Hurt is a memoir written by Adam Kay, a former doctor who worked in the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK. The book is a collection of hilarious and heart-wrenching stories from his time as a junior doctor, including his experiences with patients, colleagues, and the healthcare system itself. The book is divided into three parts, each focusing on a different stage of his medical career.
Summary of Part 1: Foundation Years
Part one of the book focuses on Adam’s first two years of medical school, which he refers to as the “foundation years.” During this time, he and his classmates are introduced to the basics of medicine, including anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology. They also spend time in hospitals and clinics, shadowing doctors and nurses.
One of the most memorable experiences from this time is when Adam and his classmates are given the task of performing a “post-mortem” on a cadaver. Despite their initial reservations, they quickly become absorbed in the process and learn a great deal about the human body.
Another highlight of this section is when Adam and his classmates are assigned to work in a psychiatric hospital. While they are initially nervous about working with patients who are mentally ill, they quickly learn that these patients are just as human as anyone else and deserve compassion and understanding.
Summary of Part 2: Core Years
Part two of the book focuses on Adam’s core years, which are spent working as a junior doctor in various hospitals around London. During this time, he works long hours and is responsible for a wide range of tasks, including taking blood samples, delivering babies, and performing surgeries.
One of the most challenging aspects of this time is when Adam is assigned to work in the emergency department (ED) of a busy hospital. He quickly learns that the ED is a high-pressure environment where every minute counts and mistakes can have serious consequences.
Another highlight of this section is when Adam is assigned to work in a neurological ward. While he is initially nervous about working with patients who have complex medical conditions, he quickly learns that these patients are just as human as anyone else and deserve compassion and understanding.
Summary of Part 3: Specialist Training
Part three of the book focuses on Adam’s specialist training, which takes place over the next few years. During this time, he specializes in obstetrics and gynaecology, which involves working with pregnant women and delivering babies.
One of the most memorable experiences from this time is when Adam is assigned to work in a maternity ward. While he is initially nervous about working with pregnant women, he quickly learns that these women are just as human as anyone else and deserve compassion and understanding.
Another highlight of this section is when Adam is assigned to work in a cancer ward. While he is initially nervous about working with patients who have serious medical conditions, he quickly learns that these patients are just as human as anyone else and deserve compassion and understanding.
Conclusion
Overall, This is Going to Hurt is a poignant and humorous memoir that provides a behind-the-scenes look at the life of a junior doctor in the NHS. While the book is filled with hilarious anecdotes and memorable characters, it also serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and challenges that healthcare workers face on a daily basis. Whether you’re a medical professional or a curious reader, This is Going to Hurt is a must-read.
Interested in reading the whole book?
Buy the book “This is Going to Hurt” on Amazon
