Secrets of Great Doctors
[ As seen everyday through the eyes of Nurses]
1. A doctor who, above all, respects the inherent worth and dignity of every patient regardless of socioeconomic status, disease, race, ethnicity, or personal judgments as imparted by another health care professional.
2. The doctors who do not dismiss the concerns, or instinct of a nurse, nursing student, or med student.
3. A doctor who isn’t afraid to admit when he/she is wrong; to the patient, the nurse or any student in their charge - and a beautiful sincerity in apology without blaming others for what they are responsible and accountable for.
4. A physician who respects students of all descriptions - med students, nursing students, PA students - perhaps likely remembering the beginning of their own journey. One that respects the inherent worth of all his/her colleagues from the housekeeper to the cafeteria worker.
5. A doctor who actually does their assessments, not just standing by the door, observing and charting inaccuracies. Moreover, there is something memorable about the ones who not only anticipate quality of care, but the ones who take the time to listen intently to, and care for their patients.
6. A doctor who doesn’t embarrass, or make examples of a nurse, resident, or med student during rounds when they answer a question incorrectly - and actually takes the time to explain so there’s learning involved. (Not to mention respect of their knowledge and patience).
7. Physicians who understand that there’s sometimes a time to let go, despite any heroic measures, there’s insight of what would be best for the patient, over relentless interventions.
8. A doctor who doesn’t come out of a patient’s room to ask a nurse/nursing assistant to put a nasal cannula on, fetch a glass of water, blanket or any basic items that a patient is also probably secretly wondering why they have to go get someone else to help me with something so simple; and while some of the more time consuming tasks are not expected - it’s always so very appreciated when one takes the time to assist a patient with positioning, or cleaning.
9. Doctors who stand up for nurses to the Nursing Supervisors, or one who defends the nurses when a patient or family member is being disrespectful.
10. A doctor who on any given day, amid the overwhelming stress, chaos or fear will always find a little humor, and never lose sight of why they chose to honor their oath of care.
