Supportive supervision (Daria's Post)

Hi All,

I am on my Cardio placement and on Wednesday, I had experienced hard time from one of my new patients.
Mr.NT is 65 years old male after CABGx5 with pulmonary complication. I checked the patient’s X- ray and blood results. I found that the patient has ¯Hb (below 90).When I came to perform cardiopulmonary subjective and objective assessment and gather missing SHx information I could felt that patient is not in “good mood” however; the patient let me do assessment. I found some very “interesting information” such for example patient was using puffer (Ventolin) 2 puffs every 2 hours. I went to my clinical supervisor to present my findings and discuss my treatment plan( DBExs, supported huff ect). Additionally, I was going to provide some information to the patient about Ventolin and reviewed his technique. When I came back, the patient was standing at doorframe and he stated that either I take him outside or I can go away. I did not wanted be bossy and tell that I in charge so first, I tried to explain to the patient what is treatment plan and why. I mentioned as well that I would like to have a look how he is using his puffer. Automatically, patient commented this that I am saying he is using wrongly his puffer. I kept trying to clarified and explained, however in vain. Finally, I decided to clarify whether the patient refusing treatment. The answer was yes. I went to my clinical supervisor and I reported this situation and documented in patient’s notes.
My supervisor was supportive and said I should treat this as a good experience and do not take personally. Later afternoon my supervisor asked me again if I am OK and added that this patient was grumpy to other medical staff too. He refused blood transfusion and was unpleasant to nursing staff. He said that not all patients are compliant.
It is hard especially at the beginning do not take this sort of situation personally but it was good lesson. I am glad I had this lesson now.

Daria