Author: Mursi.MD

General Medicine/

Carepod One Stainless Steel: The Humidifier That Redefines Comfort

Quiet, Stylish, Smart: The Humidifier that Redefines Comfort

As a family medicine physician, I frequently suggest practical solutions to common household health issues. One of my consistently recommended solutions is the use of a dependable humidifier, particularly during the dry winter season or in homes with central heating systems.

I was searching for a humidifier for myself (to take my own advice), and at perfect timing, I was gifted the Carepod One Stainless Steel Humidifier! After using it for over a month, here is what I think about it, and I have A LOT to say:

Health Benefits, Design & Practicality

First and foremost, the Carepod One Stainless Steel Humidifier has a sleek and modern design, seamlessly blending into any room decor (this holds great significance for me, given that I am that person who prefers neutral colors in their home). It is also compact and practical, allowing easy placement without taking up much space.

From a medical perspective, maintaining proper humidity levels in indoor environments is crucial for respiratory health. The Carepod One Stainless Steel Humidifier effectively addresses this concern by offering adjustable humidity settings.

This flexibility is particularly beneficial for individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma or allergies, as it helps create an environment less conducive to irritants.

Many humidifiers can be noisy, causing disturbances during sleep or work. However, the Carepod One operates quietly, enhancing its suitability in bedrooms or quiet spaces.

The Carepod One has a user-friendly interface. Operating the device is a breeze, with simple controls. The LED display provides clear information on humidity levels and allows for precise adjustments, ensuring optimal comfort for users.

Check out my Shop Page for my favorite purchases and recommendations!

Maintenance & Hygiene

What ultimately determines a humidifier’s success or failure is the maintenance procedure (needing a humidifier that is easy to maintain is important for my busy lifestyle). It is essential to adhere to a proper hygiene regimen to prevent the accumulation of bacteria and mold, safeguarding against inhaling potential contaminants.

The Carepod One has an easy-to-clean design with detachable components, making regular maintenance straightforward. Additionally, the antimicrobial technology integrated into the humidifier helps inhibit the growth of bacteria and mold, promoting a healthier living environment.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, as a family medicine physician, I highly recommend the Carepod One Stainless Steel Humidifier for those seeking a reliable solution for maintaining indoor humidity levels. Its stylish design, user-friendly interface, easy-to-clean design, and quiet operation make it a standout choice in the market. Investing in the Carepod One is a step toward creating a healthier and more comfortable home environment, especially during the challenging winter months.

Medicine Life/

The Importance of Setting Boundaries as an Attending Physician

Physicians, Set Your Boundaries to Avoid Burnout.
The Importance of Setting Boundaries as an Attending Physician

As an attending physician, the transition from residency to a full-fledged medical career can be exhilarating yet demanding. The responsibility of patient care, administrative duties, and the perpetual demands of the healthcare field can quickly blur the lines between personal and professional life. The most essential skill that is crucial for a successful and sustainable medical career is the art of setting boundaries.

The Importance of Boundaries to Avoid Burnout

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is not just a luxury; it is necessary for both personal well-being and professional efficacy. Setting clear boundaries enables attending physicians to perform optimally while preventing burnout and exhaustion. Here’s a closer look at how setting boundaries can positively impact your career:

Preserving Personal Time

Attending physicians often find themselves caught in a whirlwind of responsibilities, making it challenging to differentiate between work and personal time. Establishing boundaries helps carve out sacred moments for self-care, family, and personal pursuits. Whether it’s a regular exercise routine, family dinners, or simply downtime for relaxation, protecting these moments is crucial for long-term career satisfaction.

Enhancing Focus and Productivity

Setting boundaries allows physicians to prioritize tasks efficiently, leading to increased focus and productivity during working hours. When boundaries are clearly defined, attending physicians can allocate time for patient care, administrative duties, and professional development without feeling overwhelmed.

Preventing Burnout

Physician burnout is a pervasive issue in the medical field, often fueled by an incessant workload and emotional exhaustion. Establishing limits on working hours, patient load, and non-urgent responsibilities can act as a preventive measure against burnout. Recognizing and respecting personal limitations is a vital aspect of self-preservation in the medical profession.

Practical Tips for Boundary Setting

Now that we understand the significance of boundaries, let’s explore some practical tips for implementing them in your professional life:

1. Define Clear Working Hours

Establish set working hours and stick to them as much as possible. Communicate these hours to colleagues, staff, and even patients to manage expectations effectively. Consistency in your schedule fosters a sense of predictability and control.

2. Learn to Say No

While attending physicians often want to go above and beyond for their patients and colleagues, learning to say no is a valuable skill. Prioritize tasks and commitments based on their impact and urgency, and don’t hesitate to decline non-essential requests when necessary.

3. Delegate Responsibilities

Effective delegation is key to preventing an overwhelming workload. Trust your team and delegate tasks that don’t require your direct attention. This not only lightens your load but also empowers your colleagues to contribute meaningfully to patient care.

4. Prioritize Self-Care

Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. Whether it’s regular exercise, hobbies, or simply downtime for relaxation, investing in your well-being is essential for sustained success in your medical career.

5. Regularly Reassess and Adjust

Boundaries are not static; they evolve with changes in your personal and professional life. Regularly reassess your boundaries and be open to adjusting them as needed. Flexibility is key to maintaining a healthy balance.

In Conclusion

Setting boundaries as an attending physician is not a sign of weakness but a testament to your commitment to long-term success and well-being. By preserving personal time, enhancing focus, and preventing burnout, you are not only safeguarding your professional career but also ensuring that you can continue to provide exceptional care to your patients for years to come. Embrace the power of boundaries and embark on a journey towards a fulfilling and sustainable medical practice.

Study Schedule & Tips/

5 Reasons You Are Dreading to Study

Struggling to Hit the Books? You are not alone in dreading to study! Uncover the 5 Hidden Reasons You’re Avoiding Study Time 📚😫 – Find out what’s really holding you back from academic success!

Feeling a sense of dread or resistance when it comes to studying is a shared experience, and it’s essential to understand the underlying reasons. Here are five possible reasons why you might be dreading to study:

1. Lack of Interest:
Lack of interest in a subject or topic can indeed be a significant factor behind the dread of studying. When you’re not engaged or enthusiastic about what you’re learning, it’s natural for studying to feel like a tedious chore. To overcome this challenge, consider finding ways to make the material more relatable and relevant to your life. Try connecting the subject matter to your personal interests or future goals. Break down your study sessions into manageable chunks and reward yourself after completing them. Seek out additional resources such as documentaries, podcasts, or real-world applications that can make the subject more engaging. Moreover, setting clear goals and reminding yourself of the bigger picture, like how this knowledge can contribute to your overall growth, can help reignite your motivation and make studying a more enjoyable experience. Remember, your mindset plays a crucial role in your study journey, and finding ways to cultivate genuine interest can go a long way in making the process less daunting.

Check out my YouTube video on How To Study Efficiently 

2. Overwhelm:
Feeling overwhelmed while studying can undoubtedly lead to a sense of dread. When you’re confronted with an avalanche of information, it’s easy to become disheartened. To combat this, start by breaking down your study tasks into smaller, more manageable portions. Create a schedule that allocates specific time slots for each topic or chapter, and don’t forget to include short breaks to recharge your focus. Prioritize what’s most important and tackle one thing at a time. Additionally, consider seeking support from peers or instructors when you encounter challenging concepts. Sometimes, discussing your difficulties with others can provide valuable insights and reduce the feeling of isolation. Lastly, practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness can help alleviate the stress associated with being overwhelmed, making studying a less daunting endeavor. Remember, taking things step by step and maintaining a sense of balance in your study routine can go a long way in combating the dread caused by being overwhelmed.

 

Check out my blog post on how to prepare for Step 3 CCS

3. Fear of Failure:
The fear of failure can be a powerful force that deters many from even starting their study sessions. It’s essential to recognize that failure is a natural part of the learning process, and it’s through setbacks that we often learn the most. To overcome this fear, try shifting your perspective. Instead of seeing failure as a dead-end, view it as a stepping stone towards improvement. Set realistic goals and celebrate small victories along the way. Break your studies into manageable chunks, and if you’re struggling with a particular topic, seek help from teachers, peers, or tutors. Remember, everyone makes mistakes, and it’s these mistakes that pave the way for growth and success. Embrace the idea that every moment spent studying is a step towards personal development and knowledge, regardless of the immediate outcome. By doing so, you can gradually reduce the fear of failure and approach your studies with greater confidence and determination.

Check out my YouTube video where I share how I overcame this. 

4. Distractions and Procrastination:
Distractions and procrastination can be the two-headed dragon that keeps us from successful studying. The constant allure of social media, entertainment, and other diversions can easily pull us away from our books. To combat this, start by creating a dedicated study space free from distractions. Put away your phone or use apps that block access to time-wasting websites during study sessions. Break your study time into shorter, focused intervals, and reward yourself with a brief break when you complete them. Additionally, set clear goals for what you want to achieve during each study session, and visualize the satisfaction of completing your tasks. This can serve as a powerful motivator to beat procrastination. Remember, staying organized and disciplined is key to conquering distractions and procrastination, allowing you to make the most of your study time.

Click to read about my ADHD story

5. Negative Past Experiences:
Negative past experiences, whether academic or personal, can cast a shadow on your motivation to study. It’s crucial to recognize that these experiences don’t define your future potential. To conquer the weight of the past, start by reframing those experiences as valuable lessons rather than failures. Understand that setbacks are a part of everyone’s journey. Set realistic expectations for yourself and break your study tasks into smaller, achievable goals. Seek support from mentors, friends, or counselors if needed, as discussing your feelings can help alleviate their hold on you. Ultimately, remember that your past does not dictate your future. You have the power to reshape your academic path and create a brighter, more fulfilling learning experience. Embrace the wisdom gained from your past and use it as fuel to drive your future success.

In conclusion, studying can be a challenging endeavor, especially when faced with obstacles like lack of interest, overwhelm, fear of failure, distractions, and negative past experiences. However, with the right mindset and strategies, you can overcome these hurdles. By finding ways to connect with your subject matter, breaking down your study sessions, seeking support when needed, and reframing setbacks as stepping stones, you can transform your study habits and regain control over your learning journey. Remember, your potential is not defined by your past or your fears; it’s shaped by your determination to persevere and grow. So, tackle those study sessions with confidence, knowing that you have the tools to succeed and the resilience to overcome any challenges that come your way. Your academic journey is yours to shape, and the possibilities for growth and achievement are boundless.

Mental Health/

Why You Should Love Yourself – The Importance of Self-Love

Love yourself more than anyone else. Here is WHY:
 
1. Mental Well-being:
Self-love fosters positive self-esteem and a strong sense of self-worth, reducing the risk of mental health issues like anxiety and depression. It allows you to develop a more resilient and compassionate attitude towards yourself during challenging times.
 
2. Healthy Relationships:
When you love and respect yourself, you establish healthy boundaries and standards for how others treat you. This, in turn, leads to more fulfilling and respectful relationships with others.
 
3. Emotional Balance:
Self-love enables you to regulate your emotions better. Rather than seeking validation from external sources, you develop an internal source of validation, leading to emotional stability and contentment.
 
4. Pursuit of Goals:
Believing in yourself and your abilities encourages you to set and pursue ambitious goals. Self-love provides the motivation to strive for success, embracing challenges as opportunities for growth.
 
5. Physical Health:
Self-love encourages self-care practices, such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and sufficient rest. Taking care of your body demonstrates respect for yourself and contributes to overall well-being.
 
6. Decision-Making:
When you love yourself, you make decisions based on what is truly best for your well-being rather than seeking external validation or approval. This leads to more authentic and fulfilling life choices.
 
7. Empathy and Compassion:
Loving yourself enhances your ability to extend empathy and compassion toward others. By understanding your own struggles and triumphs, you develop a deeper understanding of the human experience.
 
8. Resilience:
Self-love equips you with the strength to bounce back from setbacks and failures. You become more adaptable and less likely to be discouraged by challenges
 
I hope you always remember you are worthy of love.
 
Much love,
Dr. Mursi
Medical School/

My ADHD Story

I was recommended to get evaluated for ADHD by my pediatric attending during my 3rd-year clinical rotations. I did not listen to her recommendations until I started to see her reasoning as I was functionally struggling, but always in near breakdown.

I was in denial because I saw ADHD as a form of weakness and even now still struggle with this idea (I know it is silly but my truth). I finally decided to get evaluated at the end of my third year of medical school. I got diagnosed and was started on the medication, methylphenidate. I tried it for a week or two and decided it wasn’t doing anything and I just needed to change my habits and learn to control my focus.

I continued to struggle but there were also a lot of other things happening in my personal life that I continued to make excuses for my symptoms.

My excuses:

  • My constant inner restlessness is all from my anxiety.
  • my anxiety is from having generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).
  • My impatience and impulsivity are part of my personality
  • My inattentiveness is my selective hearing and daydreaming habits from my childhood
  • My disorganization is just my lack of good habits
  • My forgetfulness is from being distracted by so much work.
  • My distracting behavior is from having so many things on my plate.
  • Remarks by friends and family are just remarks and it doesn’t mean anything.

 

 

I continued to just functionally struggle. I worked really, really hard and the payoff was average. Over time, I burnt out more frequently.

My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer. I began to get moody, and easily irritable and my anxiety even worsened. I continued to work on coping mechanisms and thought I was doing okay. I thought I was handling it well. I started my intern year of family medicine residency. The stress of my mom’s cancer and the stress of residency was taking on a further toll on me with uncontrolled ADHD.

 

I was struggling with residency as an intern and I had mentioned a history of ADHD to one of my attendings during an evaluation. I was again recommended to discuss treatment with my PCP.

 

 

I have been on methylphenidate for over a year now and my anxiety is more controlled, and my inner restlessness, impatience, impulsivity, distractibility, and disorganization have improved. On the days I don’t take my medication there is a difference compared to when I do. Often noted by others more than myself. I am learning to accept external help for my ADHD.

LYSSE

I struggled for years, I mean really struggled when I could have had it a little less difficult.

This was all shared as a reminder of the various insecurities everyone deals with. truthfully, I still struggle with admitting that I have ADHD out loud as I find this a weakness like I am making an excuse for not being good enough.

As always, my posts are always a self-reminder and a reminder that you are not alone.

@Dr.Mursi.MD

Medical School/

Response to Hardship

The Process of Healing – Journal Entry 1

Through these journal entries, I hope to help myself find meaning in life again after the loss of my mom. I share such a private journey publicly in the hopes of helping someone out there who is also in a lot of pain. You are not alone in your feelings. I am here with you. This can be our healing process. To make the most of these journal entries, I encourage you to be an active participant and journal along with me. Write out your thoughts after reading each journey entry. It can be concerning the topic I talk about or just your current existing thoughts running through your head, keeping you distracted.

 

HOW I RESPOND TO HARDSHIP

I have always believed there are three ways that you can respond to a painful happening in your life

 

 

1. You can get stuck in the past and drown in your sorrows.
2. You can deny its existence and just go with the flow of life.
3. You can acknowledge the pain and actively work on how to grow and
improve.

My response to hardship has mostly been about the next step. What do I have to do next to survive the hardship? What I have to focus on to make the burden of the pain I feel… less. I believe I am a person who often chooses the third option, but at times I feel I do practice the second.

What do I have to focus on to make the burden of the pain I feel… less.

Medicine Life/

You Are a Warrior

⚠️ My personal self-assessment post. I share as it may help someone else.

Are you worrying about things and feeling anxious/upset/overwhelmed? Here is a self-eval task that I did right before posting this and the outcome, keep reading.

💢 I started typing out what I worry about without pausing.
💢 As I kept typing I had a realization towards the end (one I have had before but reminded again about).
💢 I read through it and realized the theme of it and possibly the root cause.
💢 I begin taking deep breaths, slow and steady. 4 counts in and 6 counts out.
💢 I type out my thoughts base on my realization
💢 Then I remind myself what if I stopped worrying and believe that it will all work out. What if it all works out?

FIGS

Now you try it!

Keep reading to see my self-analysis thoughts.

My freestyle:
I am a worrier. I worry about what happens next. I worry about my goals and where I want to be. I worry about not doing enough today for tomorrow to be better. I worry about missing something today that I would regret not finding sooner. I worry things are not happening now. I worry that if it doesn’t happen soon, then it won’t happen. I especially worry about losing time. I don’t want to lose time, so I want it now so I can be in that state longer or have it for longer.

FIGS

My self-analysis:
My worrying makes me pushy. I push for things now. As soon as I have decided I want it, I act on it or make it known without a second thought. This has affected my relationships because when people are not on my page, I leave them behind. I move forward on my own. My family and friends would be screaming right now in agreement. I have known this about myself for some time now and it is difficult to change a habit which has also lead me to my achievements. Today it was brought to my attention that I could lose something very special because of my worries which causes me to be very pushy.

My reminder:
Instead of worrying about what happens far in the future work on what happens today, this week, this month. Let it all work out naturally because it will all work out nicely in the end. Enjoy the moments of now instead of waiting for the moments of tomorrow. This chapter will be a chapter you will look back. If you rush through it now, you will regret rushing the opportunity of life that you were given.

I hope that made sense.
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FIGS