Does Anyone Need a Heart Transplant?

Recently, I had the opportunity to deal with a number of consultants on behalf of my patients with wounds. These patients needed procedures or tests that we could not provide in the wound center. In each case, I carefully explained each patient’s situation, what was needed, and why it was needed to the consultant; each readily agreed to see the patients. I always ask my patients to call and let me know what each consultant has told them so I can allay any fears they might have about the procedure or test and answer any questions the consultant might not have clearly addressed. Each patient called after the visit to the consultant, and, in each case, the consultant, without examining the patient, had recommended a procedure that was either marginally or totally unrelated to the patient’s problem. After checking with the consultants, I was dismayed to surmise that each was recommending a test or procedure that they liked to do or one that paid the most regardless of the need of the patient. I was very upset on realizing that some of our colleagues have sunk so low as to only consider patients as procedures to be done or a payday! They had no concern as to what would be best for the patient. How has our profession sunk so low?

Patients come to us with problems, many of which can be life- or limb-threatening. They expect us to do what is in their best interest based on our knowledge and experience. I believe there are 4 things that we as health care professionals should have if we are going to do what is best for our patients. 

First, we should have a heart for helping people. Most of us went into health care because we wanted to do this, and the majority of us still have that motivation. It is imperative that we treat every patient as we would want to be treated. I have always been told that patients do not care how much we know; they only want to know how much we care. If you cannot care for your patients, maybe you should consider a heart transplant for a change of heart. 

Second, we should have seeing eyes. We should see our patients as individuals who, many times, are at their worst. They are frustrated that previous treatments have not resolved their problems. They are concerned with the outcome of their problems and that they are a burden on their families. Yes, we see patients when they are not at their best. As caring and compassionate caregivers, we should realize this and do our best to alleviate these concerns so that we can focus on getting each patient the correct information about their problem and enlisting their help in achieving a proper outcome with their treatment.  

Third, we should have a caring mouth. That may sound strange, but remember, we should be giving the patient hope and not despair. We must realize that patients overhear many of the things we say to colleagues. They may be hurt by what they hear us say or may interpret information about their problem in the wrong way and think we are not being truthful. Nothing can affect a patient more than what we say.

Lastly, we need to provide a caring hand. This can be applied in 2 ways. When I examine patients, I want them to know that their condition is not so bad that I would not touch their wounds. Many patients are repulsed by their own wounds and ulcers. I want them to know that I do not share that feeling and will work on their wounds and ulcers without hesitation — while wearing gloves, of course.  To me, this shows the patients that I will get involved with their problem and do whatever it takes to make them better.  Touch can convey reassurance to a patient; shaking the hand of your patient when you walk into the room or a gentle, appropriate touch on the shoulder can restore the patient’s confidence that you care and are doing your best for them. Without their confidence in us, our chances of helping them are very small no matter what treatment we prescribe. 

It may be time for each of us to reevaluate our attitudes toward our jobs and our patients. If we see patients as just a way to make a living or a house payment, maybe we should consider another line of work. We should show patients we care about them and their problems by every way we interact with them.  Admittedly, this is not always easy, but it should be our goal. Remember to always treat each patient as you would want to be treated if you were in their situation.