6 Key Qualities of a Good Neurosurgeon
Surgery is an intellectually satisfying and demanding career; most people apply to be a neurosurgeon every year. Those who are already successful must be ready to learn and have the necessary qualities needed for the job. Some of these qualities that make a good neurosurgeon include the following:
- Realistic and Investigative
Neurosurgeons are investigative people. This means they are inquisitive people who like spending time alone. Plus, they are realistic, making them enjoy applying to projects or working outdoors.
If you are either of these archetypes, then you are best suited to become a neurosurgeon. But if you’re artistic, then the career is not perfect for you.
- Physical Stamina
Being fit physically is one of the important qualities of a good neurosurgeon. Most neurosurgeons work 8 to 10 hours per day and might be on call on some weekends and nights. So, being physically fit to withstand tiredness and fatigue is imperative.
Surgeries often last four to five hours, but more delicate ones may go beyond those hours. Therefore, this requires neurosurgeons to stand longer without getting tired.
- Adaptable
Neurosurgery is among the most developing fields. According to some studies, technology and diagnosis methods evolved all the time.
Willingness to adapt to technology and professional developments is important to give patients proper care. In most cases, neurosurgeons are consultants who provide patients with treatment alternatives and make recommendations.
- Communication Skills
Neurosurgeons must explain conditions confidently and address treatment options clearly, including the risks as well as the pros and cons of every option.
Patients must also feel comfortable raising their concerns without feeling unheard and out of place. For neurosurgeons to be great communicators, they must be a good listener and speaker.
- Diligent Attitude
Since a lot of time will be needed to observe patients and monitor their brain activities, neurosurgeons, like every physician in healthcare, should have patience and diligence to see all cases through.
It is common for neurosurgeons to be the last stop, especially in difficult diagnostic problems. In order to be a great neurosurgeon, everything must be secondary. You must be ready to leave dinner and take good care of patients.
It all comes down to this philosophy. If you are accountable for someone else’s life, you don’t have any excuse for the time you need to put in for treatment.
- Precision and Attention to Detail
Precision, as well as attention to detail, are probably the most vital qualities in a neurosurgeon’s personality. Experts say that neurosurgeons must have a higher level of dexterity to carry out tasks, such as placing aneurysm clips or tying surgical knots.
Because many neurosurgeons spend some time in operating rooms every week, it would be best to have good coordination, pay attention to details, and perform specific surgical procedures with precision and dexterity.
The Takeaway
Neurosurgeons are highly trained and educated professionals. Their skills are varied and vast, too. It often includes skills like attention to detail, diligent attitude, good communication skills, physical stamina, adaptability, and realism, to name a few.
