Junior doctors are our future medical colleagues and will be our lifeline when we and our families need medical care. We must value and support them. This week we launch a new series for “the competent novice.” Written by some of medicine’s best educators, it gives practical advice on how to master key aspects of being a doctor. It will cover lifelong learning, dealing with stress, confidentiality, time management, decision making, managing the “take,” discharge planning, and the interface with other health professionals.

One thing all doctors need to master is how to handle complaints from patients. …