5 answers
Leonard
Student
Arkansas City, Kansas
2
Questions
Asked
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How do you prioritize a patient care and empathy in a high-pressure health care environment?
What opportunities or pathways exist for professional growth and development within medical field
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5 answers
Jemima A. Chukwu
Anatomist
44
Answers
Warri, Delta, Nigeria
Updated
Jemima A.’s Answer
It can be a bit challenging to prioritize patient care and empathy in a high-pressure healthcare environment. What I suggest that one can employ these:
- Clear and concise communication.
- Healthcare providers can undergo some sort of formal training in empathy to help them understand and respond to the emotional and psychological needs of their patients. Some companies offer such programs internally, or one can search on Alison, Coursera, or other professional societies.
- Managing time properly can allow healthcare providers to allocate specific times for patient interaction without interruptions.
- Encouraging mindfulness and self-care among healthcare providers can also help them manage stress and maintain a compassionate demeanour.
- Clear and concise communication.
- Healthcare providers can undergo some sort of formal training in empathy to help them understand and respond to the emotional and psychological needs of their patients. Some companies offer such programs internally, or one can search on Alison, Coursera, or other professional societies.
- Managing time properly can allow healthcare providers to allocate specific times for patient interaction without interruptions.
- Encouraging mindfulness and self-care among healthcare providers can also help them manage stress and maintain a compassionate demeanour.
Martin Schoen
APRN
282
Answers
Ocala, Florida
Updated
Martin’s Answer
Great question! In the healthcare field, dealing with high pressure situations is a part of the job. As you grow both personally and professionally, you learn to show empathy, or at least give the impression of it. This includes listening attentively, offering comforting smiles and doing everything possible to make the patient feel at ease.
However, it's important to note that sometimes, empathy is more about the outward appearance than the inner feeling. For instance, during my years conducting federal disability physicals, I found that only a small percentage of patients truly needed disability support. The majority seemed to exaggerate their conditions. I've encountered patients who've mixed up which knee was causing them pain, or claimed to have difficulty walking, only to be seen running to their car later. Despite knowing this, I never let the patient realize I was aware of their exaggerations. I maintained a demeanor of concern and interest, keeping my true thoughts to myself. I simply did my job, showed empathy and wrote my report.
As for handling the pressure, it's all about focusing on the task at hand - providing healthcare. You learn to concentrate on the patient and their immediate medical needs, rather than getting overwhelmed by the stress. This is a skill honed over time during your training.
How you unwind after dealing with such pressure varies from person to person. Some hit the gym, others find solace in religion, some discuss their experiences with friends or professionals, while others may withdraw or turn to alcohol. There's no one-size-fits-all answer. It's about finding what works best for you. I hope this helps, even though it may not be a definitive answer.
However, it's important to note that sometimes, empathy is more about the outward appearance than the inner feeling. For instance, during my years conducting federal disability physicals, I found that only a small percentage of patients truly needed disability support. The majority seemed to exaggerate their conditions. I've encountered patients who've mixed up which knee was causing them pain, or claimed to have difficulty walking, only to be seen running to their car later. Despite knowing this, I never let the patient realize I was aware of their exaggerations. I maintained a demeanor of concern and interest, keeping my true thoughts to myself. I simply did my job, showed empathy and wrote my report.
As for handling the pressure, it's all about focusing on the task at hand - providing healthcare. You learn to concentrate on the patient and their immediate medical needs, rather than getting overwhelmed by the stress. This is a skill honed over time during your training.
How you unwind after dealing with such pressure varies from person to person. Some hit the gym, others find solace in religion, some discuss their experiences with friends or professionals, while others may withdraw or turn to alcohol. There's no one-size-fits-all answer. It's about finding what works best for you. I hope this helps, even though it may not be a definitive answer.
Hadil Balla
Pharmacist
7
Answers
Kuwait City, Al Asimah Governate, Kuwait
Updated
Hadil’s Answer
I think Ksenija Lončar answer is really good but I have few points to add:
Depending on "high-pressure health care environment":
1. do you mean there are many patients to take care of and you can not find enough time to communicate properly with. I think the team work with your colleagues will help prioritizing the time and make decent conversation with patient.
2. You can start your conversation with clearly asking the patient "how can I help you feel better or how do you need to be served" sometimes we assume what the problem others have and can lead to misunderstanding and time consuming
3. If you mean facing critical cases and a lot of death by "high-pressure health care environment", it is OK to feel challenged to prioritize patients and empathy even if you did your job 100% and you have to accept that you did your best and there's nothing more to do.
4. Empathy and prioritize humans in general and patients as well needs to understand human better. I recommend reading more about human psychology, behavioral science , and health promotion in your free time it helped me a lot.
Thanks for your question and I hope the best for you.
Depending on "high-pressure health care environment":
1. do you mean there are many patients to take care of and you can not find enough time to communicate properly with. I think the team work with your colleagues will help prioritizing the time and make decent conversation with patient.
2. You can start your conversation with clearly asking the patient "how can I help you feel better or how do you need to be served" sometimes we assume what the problem others have and can lead to misunderstanding and time consuming
3. If you mean facing critical cases and a lot of death by "high-pressure health care environment", it is OK to feel challenged to prioritize patients and empathy even if you did your job 100% and you have to accept that you did your best and there's nothing more to do.
4. Empathy and prioritize humans in general and patients as well needs to understand human better. I recommend reading more about human psychology, behavioral science , and health promotion in your free time it helped me a lot.
Thanks for your question and I hope the best for you.
Maryam Abdul'Ahad
Executive Assistant
1
Answer
Nutley, New Jersey
Updated
Maryam’s Answer
Always remember, when someone is going through a crisis or facing a problem, their feelings matter immensely. Actively listen and provide them the support they need, but do it without bias. Everyone deserves attention and care, no matter their situation. As a caregiver, it's crucial to show yourself kindness while attending to others' needs. Don't forget that self-care is equally important for you.
Remember, we can't control everything and everyone - only ourselves. This perspective is key in understanding our human limitations.
While supporting someone else, it's vital not to neglect your own needs. Flow with the situation, but keep in mind that we are all human. We make mistakes, but we are also capable of putting forth our best efforts for the betterment of ourselves and others. So, even in challenging times, remember to be patient with yourself and others. We're all in this together, striving for positive outcomes.
Remember, we can't control everything and everyone - only ourselves. This perspective is key in understanding our human limitations.
While supporting someone else, it's vital not to neglect your own needs. Flow with the situation, but keep in mind that we are all human. We make mistakes, but we are also capable of putting forth our best efforts for the betterment of ourselves and others. So, even in challenging times, remember to be patient with yourself and others. We're all in this together, striving for positive outcomes.
Gina Cabrera
EC
130
Answers
Hernando, Florida
Updated
Gina’s Answer
Prioritizing patient care and empathy in a high-pressure healthcare environment can be challenging but crucial. Here are some strategies to help:
1. Maintain open communication: Effective communication with patients is essential. Take the time to listen to their concerns, provide clear explanations, and address any questions they may have. Show empathy by acknowledging their emotions and demonstrating understanding.
2. Practice active listening: Actively listen to patients to understand their needs and concerns. This involves giving them your full attention, maintaining eye contact, and using verbal and non-verbal cues to show that you are engaged and empathetic.
3. Foster a supportive team culture: Encourage a supportive and collaborative team environment where all healthcare professionals prioritize patient care and empathy. This can involve regular team meetings, open communication channels, and opportunities for feedback and reflection.
4. Manage time effectively: Time management is crucial in a high-pressure healthcare environment. Prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, but always ensure that patient care and empathy remain at the forefront. Delegate tasks when appropriate to ensure that patient needs are met.
5. Practice self-care: Taking care of yourself is essential to provide quality patient care. Prioritize self-care activities such as exercise, healthy eating, and sufficient rest. Engage in activities that help you relax and recharge, such as hobbies or spending time with loved ones.
In terms of professional growth and development within the medical field, there are several opportunities and pathways available:
1. Continuing education: Participate in continuing education programs, workshops, and conferences to stay updated on the latest advancements in your field. This can help you enhance your knowledge and skills, and stay abreast of new research and best practices.
2. Specialization and advanced training: Consider pursuing specialization in a specific area of medicine that aligns with your interests and career goals. This can involve additional training, fellowships, or certifications.
3. Research and publications: Engage in research projects and contribute to scientific publications. This can help you expand your knowledge, contribute to the medical community, and enhance your professional reputation.
4. Leadership and management roles: Explore opportunities for leadership and management roles within healthcare organizations. This can involve taking on supervisory positions, participating in quality improvement initiatives, or serving on committees.
5. Mentorship and networking: Seek out mentors who can provide guidance and support in your professional development. Networking with colleagues, attending professional events, and joining medical associations can also provide valuable connections and opportunities for growth.
Remember, professional growth and development in the medical field is a lifelong journey. Continuously seek opportunities to learn, grow, and improve your skills to provide the best possible care for your patients.
1. Maintain open communication: Effective communication with patients is essential. Take the time to listen to their concerns, provide clear explanations, and address any questions they may have. Show empathy by acknowledging their emotions and demonstrating understanding.
2. Practice active listening: Actively listen to patients to understand their needs and concerns. This involves giving them your full attention, maintaining eye contact, and using verbal and non-verbal cues to show that you are engaged and empathetic.
3. Foster a supportive team culture: Encourage a supportive and collaborative team environment where all healthcare professionals prioritize patient care and empathy. This can involve regular team meetings, open communication channels, and opportunities for feedback and reflection.
4. Manage time effectively: Time management is crucial in a high-pressure healthcare environment. Prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, but always ensure that patient care and empathy remain at the forefront. Delegate tasks when appropriate to ensure that patient needs are met.
5. Practice self-care: Taking care of yourself is essential to provide quality patient care. Prioritize self-care activities such as exercise, healthy eating, and sufficient rest. Engage in activities that help you relax and recharge, such as hobbies or spending time with loved ones.
In terms of professional growth and development within the medical field, there are several opportunities and pathways available:
1. Continuing education: Participate in continuing education programs, workshops, and conferences to stay updated on the latest advancements in your field. This can help you enhance your knowledge and skills, and stay abreast of new research and best practices.
2. Specialization and advanced training: Consider pursuing specialization in a specific area of medicine that aligns with your interests and career goals. This can involve additional training, fellowships, or certifications.
3. Research and publications: Engage in research projects and contribute to scientific publications. This can help you expand your knowledge, contribute to the medical community, and enhance your professional reputation.
4. Leadership and management roles: Explore opportunities for leadership and management roles within healthcare organizations. This can involve taking on supervisory positions, participating in quality improvement initiatives, or serving on committees.
5. Mentorship and networking: Seek out mentors who can provide guidance and support in your professional development. Networking with colleagues, attending professional events, and joining medical associations can also provide valuable connections and opportunities for growth.
Remember, professional growth and development in the medical field is a lifelong journey. Continuously seek opportunities to learn, grow, and improve your skills to provide the best possible care for your patients.