Max’s latest medical drama, The Pitt, has just premiered its first two episodes, and it has already captured my attention in a remarkable way. The series stars Noah Wyle as Dr. Michael “Robby”Robinavitch, who leads the emergency department of a fictional trauma hospital in Pittsburgh called PTMC. With a unique structure that unfolds over a single 15-hour shift, each of the show’s 15 episodes immerses viewers in the escalating pressures of the medical field.
Given the intense premise, I anticipated The Pitt would resort to exaggerated scenarios typical of many medical dramas, often sacrificing authentic medical portrayal for heightened suspense. While it may occasionally tread this path, one moment in particular demonstrated its commitment to realistic medicine in a way that many shows overlook, which deepened my appreciation for its storytelling.
The Pitt’s Chest Compression Scene Exemplifies Realism
A Measured Approach
Image via Max
As someone with basic first-aid training, I find the portrayal of chest compressions in most hospital shows quite frustrating. The scenes tend to be overly frenetic, lacking the necessary force and steadiness, which undermines their realism. While the rapid tempo might be meant to amplify urgency, the reality is that if emergency compressions are needed, the situation is already critical. Such depictions often remind me that I’m watching actors rather than trained medical professionals, detracting from my immersion in the story.
In contrast, The Pitt surprisingly takes a more disciplined approach during one pivotal scene. A young medical student named Whitaker finds an unresponsive patient in the hallway and begins chest compressions amidst the chaos of a busy emergency department. During the turmoil, Dr. Robby recognizes the frantic speed of Whitaker’s actions and immediately intervenes, instructing him to “slow, slower tempo,” making a calming gesture that resonates in such high-stress environments.
The following shot depicts Whitaker adhering to the correct tempo, famously set to the beat of the Bee Gees’ “Stayin’ Alive,”a tip well-known among those familiar with CPR guidelines. Although this exchange lasts mere seconds, it highlights The Pitt’s commitment to accuracy that is becoming increasingly rare in television medical dramas.
Ribs Are Likely to Break
As the compressions continue, a distinct cracking sound is heard, prompting Whitaker to express, “Oh, sh*t. I think I just broke some ribs.” Dr. Langdon responds, “It means you’re doing it right,” underscoring an important truth about proper chest compressions: they often result in broken ribs. In too many medical dramas, compressions appear tender and ineffective; however, what The Pitt accurately depicts is that effective compressions require substantial force, which can lead to rib fractures, especially in older patients. This hard truth, of combining desperation with physical strength, adds to the show’s authenticity.
The Pitt Authenticity Shines Through
Tackling Current Healthcare Issues
Even though I lack medical expertise, I can recognize that The Pitt illustrates many real-life challenges within the healthcare system. The series highlights the ongoing nursing shortage, along with issues of bed shortages and understaffing that plague many hospitals today. It portrays hospital administrators prioritizing metrics over patient care, a concerning reality for many facilities. Moreover, the show touches upon the lingering mental health effects of COVID-19 on frontline workers, mirrored in Dr. Robby’s character. While The Pitt isn’t without its flaws, it significantly stands out for its efforts to depict the healthcare industry in a relatable and realistic manner.
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