2022 | Voices from the Wards, Introduction

We are proud to present this collection of 55-word stories written by the University of Utah School of Medicine Class of 2022

You Are Irreplaceable

From third year through residency, your clinical training will

Just a Pap Smear

The speculum was lubed.

Mudblood

You were in DIC. Too pale to be alive.

Suction

Back is aching, can’t see anything.

Interview

During the Adverse Childhood Events lecture my heart is racing.

The Laugh

They need a heart biopsy;

Will you be my doctor?

Patient struggling from COVID long-hauler syndrome.

Why Plastic Surgery?

The heart still beats in the burn victim without a face,

Days

There are some days where you feel –

You Will Lose

I know, I know, this is not a happy sentiment.

A Smile

Sleeping soundly on her hospital bed, a smile on her face.

No Heartbeat

Parents checking in on growing baby. 

Night

Last night I dreamt of his chest underneath my hands.

Roller Coaster

Admitted for A-fib, cheerful 90-year-old

How Catatonic

They say eyes sparkle… Sapphire, a halo of sky.

Slow Down

It’s 0631.

Day of Discharge

A patient eager to leave.

Red Lipstick

Admitted at 38 weeks with sepsis,

Ouch!

Ouch! I pull my finger away.