The opposite of networking
It surprises me how much I love talking to patients. Actually I don't see them as patients, but more simply as fellow human beings. Most of the patients I talk to are elderly or psychiatric, so they most likely will not remember me; which trickles down to the fact the fact that it's really just in that one moment we connect. This is what living in the now feels like. We are not thinking about the future, but simply sharing a piece of ourselves in the present. They often light up with a grateful smile when I offer to explain their medication treatments, and then we take the time to get to know each other.
In a way, it's the opposite of networking. Networking, by a standard definition, depends on people remembering each other for future favors. It's not in the present tense; it's about past accomplishments and future collaborations. Most networking receptions are glorified, empty conversations.
Patient care is the opposite. I like explaining their medications simply because I have been fortunate enough to learn this medical information. These are not patients will not suddenly give me career opportunities or refer me to colleagues or help me network.
We are just human beings learning from each other. They are grateful that someone has taken the time to explain medications to them in a scary and overwhelming environment. But I am even more grateful that I have the chance to use my education to help someone simply to help someone.
