Monday, August 30, 2010

Running a hospital: I hate it when I have to give this kind of news

Running a hospital: I hate it when I have to give this kind of news: "Sometimes an expression that would be appropriate and kind in normal circumstances can add pain or anxiety in a clinical setting. A friend ..."
If a Doc or another provider came and said this to me I would either toss him out of the room or I would get dressed and say bye...

2 comments:

Med-Surg RN said...

I completely agree with your friends reactions...the physician's comments were self-centered and certainly did give not express empathy all that well. Kinder words as you said, would be to simply say, "we got the results of your tests and I am sorry to say that it appears serious..." Most physicians however, do follow up with a hopeful/positive phrase like, I am going to have you see a specialist - or there are some excellent treatments available, etc.
Med-Surg RN

Med-Surg RN said...

I completely agree with your friends reactions...the physician's comments were self-centered and certainly did give not express empathy all that well. Kinder words as you said, would be to simply say, "we got the results of your tests and I am sorry to say that it appears serious..." Most physicians however, do follow up with a hopeful/positive phrase like, I am going to have you see a specialist - or there are some excellent treatments available, etc.
Med-Surg RN