This post is NOT a good read nor a nice post to start the new year in my blog.
I have been irked for more than three occasions by the same patient in a span of eight hours. He managed doing that just by lying on his back. His words were harsh and his eyes were cold and piercing. I kept wanting to delay talking to him but that would not do us any good and it would only give him an impression that I, as his nurse, don't have a sense of urgency to all his medical complaints.
First, pain is subjective. What may be painful for him may not be painful for me. A prick of a needle may warrant a pain score of 5/10 for a certain individual, while another may see it as only a very mild discomfort. It varies. I understand the pain he was going through. I did. But PLEASE don't tell me that I don't care simply because you see me able and well, while you lie in pain. Do not shout at me because while being sick can give you a reason to be a snob or a brat, that can only go for a short while. I've been in pain, too.
Second, I hope you realize that pushing your wrong belief into my system will not get you anywhere. I will not bend. If you want a fast recovery, you should be the obedient patient you are expected to be. Why would you prefer drinking milk (or any milk product) over tea? That will upset the stomach even more and may cause loose bowel movements. Earth to mister, knocking!
Third, what is with money and the impression "Thou shall hurry and prioritize me because I am paying you." that most patients have?! That's ridiculous and very low. I hope he also understood that I was trying my best there to give him the quality of care he deserves.
I am a very patient nurse (I always try to keep my calm) and while you're sorry for treating me that way, I wish my eyes also sent you the message that I want us to never cross path again because you disgust me. I was grossed out with your attitude. You're old. You have some serious growing up to do.
With all these written, goodbye negative vibes. :)
