IPS Article: The Myth of Multitasking
Sometimes it’s fun to look back on things you’ve written in the past and see if they hold true. I came across this essay I wrote about Multitasking at some point in the past. I did a bit of cleanup but wanted to share this essay about my thoughts on the practice of “multi tasking” in high stress situations.
A West Mifflin volunteer firefighter operating at a structure fire - Circa 2012(ish)
The Myth of Multitasking in Air Medical Dispatch: A Personal Perspective
Introduction
In the dynamic and high-stakes world of air medical dispatch, the notion of multitasking is frequently revered. The ability to handle several tasks simultaneously seems essential. But is true multitasking even possible? Drawing from my experience at a prominent organization like STAT MedEvac, I have come to question this commonly held belief. This essay will explore the myth of multitasking, specifically in the context of air medical dispatch, and propose a more nuanced understanding of handling multiple tasks.
The Illusion of Multitasking
What we often label as multitasking in the field of air medical dispatch might more accurately be described as complex task management. Coordinating a helicopter crew, entering information, and handling multiple calls doesn't necessarily mean juggling several tasks simultaneously. It means performing one job composed of several interlinked tasks. For example, communicating with the crew while entering information is a sequential process, not a concurrent one.
The Inefficacy of True Multitasking
Attempts at genuine multitasking often lead to failure. Imagine trying to coordinate a helicopter's flight, document patient information, and engage in an unrelated conversation all at once. Such multitasking compromises the quality of each task. The inability to perform these unrelated activities effectively at the same time illustrates the limitations of what we typically perceive as multitasking.
A Strategic Approach to Task Management
Success in air medical dispatch doesn't require multitasking but rather a strategic and sequential approach to tasks:
Identifying the missions to complete.
Breaking each mission into specific tasks.
Prioritizing and working through the tasks sequentially.
This method allows for efficiency and focus, providing a more realistic and successful way to handle complex tasks.
Professional Applications
Though my insights are rooted in experience with STAT MedEvac, the lessons learned are broadly applicable. The myth of multitasking pervades various high-pressure environments. Recognizing the fallacy of true multitasking and embracing sequential task management can lead to greater success in many fields.
Conclusion
The idea of multitasking, especially in air medical dispatch, is alluring yet elusive. What is often mistaken for multitasking is, in fact, a well-coordinated management of interrelated tasks. This personal reflection has sought to demystify the concept and propose a more effective approach to handling demanding workloads.
Rather than chasing the illusion of doing everything simultaneously, we should focus on understanding, prioritizing, and systematically handling tasks one by one. It's not only a practice I've observed at STAT MedEvac but a timeless principle that promises efficiency and accuracy in various demanding professions. The myth of multitasking may persist, but the truth lies in thoughtful and strategic task management.
