Is it hard to be a cardiothoracic surgeon?

Cardiac surgery is a demanding, high-pressure field. Having the right temperament and good people skills is as vital as having the surgeon skills that they spend years of training to master. It’s a challenging, difficult career, but a heart surgeon can save a lot of lives.

What do you need to become a cardiothoracic surgeon?

Obtain a 4-year undergraduate degree in pre-med with an emphasis on science. Attend and graduate from a 4-year medical school. Complete a 5-year general surgery residency program. Enter a 2- or 3-year cardiothoracic surgery residency program, or enter a 6-year integrated cardiothoracic surgery residency.

How serious is the ICU?

For patients healthy enough to be treated in general hospital wards, going to the ICU can be bothersome, painful and potentially dangerous. Patients in the ICU are more likely to undergo possibly harmful procedures and may be exposed to dangerous infections.

Can you call someone in ICU?

Although medical language can sound foreign or complicated, don’t be shy to ask the team to explain. Some ICUs allow you to request phone calls by the bedside nurse at the beginning and end of his or her shift, to keep you updated of any needs.

Do surgeons take breaks?

These surgeons may only work in the operating room for a few hours. A lead surgeon is usually involved throughout the long-duration procedure but can step away to take a break, hydrate or grab a snack. The lead surgeon will continue to monitor the procedure throughout to ensure continuity.

How long does a cardiothoracic surgeon work?

60 hours per week

Why do you want to be a cardiothoracic surgeon?

If you are a student or resident with intelligence, drive, and stamina, who loves challenges, hard work and positive outcomes, who is results-oriented, loves working with your hands as well as your brain, and enjoys caring for others and interacting with highly competent physicians and other health care professionals.