Unit 3 Section 3Exercise 8Dealing with ‘difficult patients’
Clinical correlate 9: Psychosomatic illness
There is no single way to deal with difficult patients. The statements below refer to specific challenges physicians often encounter. What are they? Try writing a possible response (what you would actually say) to each assertion. In addition to formulating an answer, jot down a general approach to handling the situation.
1.
I just didn’t feel like taking my medication, they all make me feel kind of lousy
2. You think I have all the time in the world? It’s not like I’m getting paid for sitting here waiting for you!
3.
And now, I have ten more problems I need to talk to you about.
4.
Could you write me for a couple of Vicodin (narcotic) pills to tide me over? My last ones fell into the toilet.
5.
Doc, don’t tell me I have a ‘cold.’ I know my body. The only thing that works for me is an antibiotic. |
