The Healing Power of Honesty in Healthcare: True Stories from a Physical Therapist’s Perspective
As a physical therapist, one of the most important aspects of my job is building trust and rapport with my patients. When patients are honest about their pain, symptoms, and physical limitations, it allows me to provide them with the best possible care. In this article, I'll share some true stories that highlight the importance of honesty in the healthcare field.
A 19-Year-Old's Injury and Truthfulness
At the age of 19, I encountered a 19-year-old who sustained a piece of steel in his eye from a welding job. Rather than lying about the severity of the injury, he told the doctor the truth. This enabled the doctor to utilize a magnet to safely extract the steel particle.
Another instance occurred when a 30-year-old driver involved in a tragic accident that resulted in a 12-year-old boy losing his leg. The 19-year-old, who was the driver’s brother, decided to travel with the injured boy in the ambulance to offer support and prayers. In both cases, telling the truth facilitated the necessary medical interventions and care.
Seizure and Honesty During Medical Emergencies
I once encountered a patient who had experienced a tonic-clonic seizure for the first time in his life. After regaining consciousness, he told the doctor, 'Great! I’ve never been better! Can I go home now?' Though amnesia prevented a record of past events, the patient underwent numerous tests, an MRI, and was prescribed an anti-seizure medication.
Unfortunately, the patient refused all medications, despite their recommendation. His case emphasizes the complexities of medical emergencies, where patients’ honesty and communication can significantly impact their treatment and recovery.
The Truth When Pain is Not the Issue
One day, I performed a routine ultrasound on a 25-year-old caucasian male, who had not previously undergone an ultrasound. Despite instructions to have a full bladder, the young man kept telling the nurse he didn't have to go. However, in the end, he ended up voiding in front of everyone, demonstrating the importance of being truthful even when it means admitting to uncool behavior.
A Case of Persistent Pain Perception
Another memorable encounter was with a Medicaid patient whose story highlights the complexities of pain perception. I arrived at his home for a visit, only to find him in the process of cleaning his house, moving furniture, and lifting various items. When I asked about his back pain, he insisted on a pain scale of 10, despite no signs of discomfort or pain.
In my notes, I documented the situation, stating that his actions did not indicate a pain level of 10 and that he maintained a high tolerance to pain throughout his movements. This case underscores the importance of remaining vigilant and ensuring that pain reports align with observable behaviors to provide an accurate assessment of a patient's condition.
These stories serve as a reminder of the critical role honesty plays in the healthcare field. By encouraging and ensuring patients are truthful, physical therapists can better understand their patients' needs and deliver more effective care.
Conclusion
From a 19-year-old's honesty about a welding injury to a 25-year-old's mistaken belief that he didn't have to urinate, and a Medicaid patient with a reported pain level of 10, these stories illustrate the importance of honesty in healthcare. Physical therapists and healthcare professionals rely on truthful communication to accurately assess and treat patients, leading to better health outcomes for all.