Dr Qadeer Abdul, junior clinical fellow, Cardiology

Can you describe what you do day-to-day?

The ward is like my second home. Most of my day is spent there; seeing patients on the ward round, reviewing clinical notes, and writing discharge summaries are some of the fundamentals we carry out. I interact with various specialty teams, from pharmacists to dietitians, which has helped me to build my character and form connections with others. Work finishes when I feel satisfied that my tasks are completed, and all my patients are stable.

What do you like most about your job?

We all hope to be lucky enough to have a job that is also a career. I enjoy my job; it motivates me to get up in the morning. I can honestly say that I’m living my best life. I love the fast pace, the intense mental concentration required, and the satisfaction of alleviating someone’s pain. My job makes me a much better person, and I truly value that. Dr Abdul Qadeer Portrait

What have been some of the highlights in your role to date?

Accomplishments act as positive reinforcements; they remind us of our core values as we endeavour to excel in this field. Receiving letters of praise might make me feel good, but I’m proudest when I get a heartfelt thank you from a patient or their family members. The satisfaction of knowing you’ve made a difference, however small, is honestly the best feeling.

Which part of your job is most challenging?

We all have certain aspects of our jobs or daily lives that we find difficult to cope with, and I find the constant rotations we go through the most challenging part of the job. As doctors, we have always moved around and participated in different specialties, which is great for exposure, but I find it challenging sometimes.

What is the funniest thing a patient has ever said to you?

“You look like my postman.” A patient said that to me while he was using the commode. Pure gold!

Why did you decide to work for the NHS?

Why not? The NHS is the most innovative, dynamic organisation to work for, and I cannot fathom a life without it.