Medical Issues of Kidney Failure and Mrsa Infection in Trust Me I Am a Junior Doctor by Max Pemberton

Introduction

My book is “Trust Me, I Am a Junior Doctor” written by Max Pemberton and published in 2008. The book explores the experiences of junior doctor Max and his colleagues as they navigate the challenges and complexities of their first year in a hospital. This book delves into various medical issues and diseases, such as kidney failure and MRSA infection, among others. I chose to focus on these two medical issues because many people lack knowledge about these conditions, despite their prevalence. Moreover, the book discusses these diseases in greater detail, providing valuable insights into their nature and management.

Medical Issues: Kidney Failure

Firstly, we all know the essential function of the kidneys. The main role of the kidneys is to filter waste, remove toxins, and expel fluid in the form of urine, which contains harmful waste products. If the kidneys fail to perform their duties, it leads to kidney failure. There are several causes of kidney failure, such as obstructed blood flow to the kidneys, blockage preventing urine from exiting the kidneys, or direct damage to the kidney tissue. Kidney failure is most common among individuals with diabetes and high blood pressure. However, it can also occur temporarily in non-diabetic individuals and resolve with prompt treatment. The progression of kidney failure depends on the patient's response to treatment. Symptoms of kidney failure may include back pain, high fever, nosebleeds, and abdominal pain. Doctors diagnose this condition through blood tests, urine tests, or kidney tissue biopsies. Treatment typically involves removing toxins, balancing fluids, and restoring calcium levels in the body. In severe cases, patients may require a kidney transplant or regular dialysis (Pemberton, 2008).

Medical Issues: MRSA Infection

The second issue discussed in the book is a skin infection known as MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). Discovered in 1961, MRSA appears as sores or boils and is resistant to antibiotics like methicillin, amoxicillin, penicillin, oxacillin, and other common antibiotics. Some people may carry the bacteria without being infected, while others may develop minor skin problems. The staph bacteria can spread through direct contact or by touching contaminated surfaces like chairs or tables. To prevent MRSA infection, doctors advise individuals to wash their hands regularly, cover wounds, and avoid sharing personal items. These simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk of infection or becoming a carrier of the staph bacteria. Diagnosis involves laboratory tests, such as blood, urine, and sputum tests. The infection often starts with swollen, painful, red areas on the skin resembling pimples or spider bites, which may cause fever and warmth upon touch. Although there is no definitive cure for MRSA due to its antibiotic resistance, treatment may involve antibiotics and surgical drainage of the infected area to reduce the bacterial load (Pemberton, 2008).

Conclusion

In conclusion, I have thoroughly enjoyed “Trust Me, I Am a Junior Doctor” by Max Pemberton. As I read the book, I felt as though I was accompanying the main character through challenging cases and their resolutions. The two medical issues I discussed caught my attention because I learned that the kidneys filter waste into urine and that kidney failure occurs when the kidneys sustain direct damage. It predominantly affects diabetic patients, and treatment may involve dialysis or a kidney transplant. MRSA is a skin infection resistant to antibiotics, and while there is no cure, it can be managed through incision and drainage. This book offers an insightful glimpse into the life of a junior doctor and the medical challenges they face (Pemberton, 2008).

References

Pemberton, M. (2008). Trust Me, I Am a Junior Doctor. Hodder & Stoughton.