This Is Going to Hurt
Adam Kay
Published 2017; adapted for television in 2022.
Summary
Adam Kay's diaries from his years as a junior doctor in obstetrics and gynaecology, ending with his decision to leave medicine after a traumatic delivery that went badly wrong. The book is often very funny, recording absurd situations, exhausting rotas and the strange rhythms of hospital life, but its darker thread is the toll the job takes: long hours, missed family events, the weight of responsibility early in a career and the lack of support when things go wrong. It became hugely popular and influenced public debate about junior doctors' working conditions. It has also prompted discussion about whether doctors should share patient stories publicly, even anonymised, and about how representative one person's experience is.
Why it matters at interview
A widely read portrait of junior doctor life. It opens questions about burnout, wellbeing, support and the realities of the job — and about confidentiality in storytelling.
Key takeaways
- The emotional and physical demands on junior doctors are real and cumulative.
- Support after adverse events matters for doctors' wellbeing.
- Humour can be a coping mechanism, but it has limits.
- Sharing patient stories raises confidentiality and dignity questions.
How to use it
Use in 'What are the downsides of medicine?' or 'How will you cope?' answers — and show you've thought critically about it, not just enjoyed it.