December 20, 2022 | By: Marty Barnes
Categories: Diagnosis & Health Care
I spent more time than I could ever imagine in doctor’s offices, hospitals and therapy centers. I did my best to be sure I understood anything new: diagnoses, equipment needs, medication and whatever else was discussed.
Back then, before I had medical training, I had a lot of questions. Some of the doctors, nurses or other medical professionals were better than others at making sure I understood.
Now, as a professional nurse, I work hard to make sure I answer all my patient’s family’s questions. And I let them know that they can always ask me anything.
It can be really hard for parents to ask questions, though. Some feel judged. When you add that English is not their primary language, trying to learn through interpreters makes things much more difficult.
If something is not clear, don’t be afraid to ask.
Even the providers who are a little harder to talk to should be able to stop and answer your questions. If you are uncomfortable asking, find someone who may be able to ask for you or take notes and ask someone you trust after.
For the first two years of my daughter’s life, I carried a journal everywhere. I kept track of growth and development. I would write down questions, new terms and anything that wasn’t clear. Later, I would look up the terms. Now the journals are a way for me to look back and see how things evolved. In some cases, the way I remember things is not the same as what I wrote down. The journals help to clarify and remind me of details as well.
Start your own child’s care notebook using this website.
Healthcare decisions should be based on the needs of patients, not their age. Pediatric patients are treated based on their size. The right dose of medicine is determined using their height and weight. Equipment is sized for their safety and comfort.
Categories: Diagnosis & Health Care
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Categories: Diagnosis & Health Care, Family Support
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Categories: Diagnosis & Health Care, Family Support