Hi Everyone--
We recently presented to a pediatric clinic and one of the nurses asked a question at the end that I thought was worth exploring. They field 500+ phone calls a day from mom's and dad's. The nurse wondered what things they could watch for and/or ask as they are interacting with these parents. One of the things I mentioned was a mom who called about their child's 100 degree fever and they are told to call if it goes higher. Then that parent calls three, four, five times NOT because the fever has gotten higher but because of anxiety and concern. But I'm sure there are many other things that could be observed via process not just by asking questions.
So my question to you all would be: What would you say to this nurse? What symptoms can be observed/assessed over the phone, what questions could be asked?
Thanks!
Kristin
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Kristen, You raise a good question. In the name of brevity, I will say that by "merely" increasing their awareness, you are already taking care of half the battle. Nurses who are in tune with the possibility of mood or anxiety disorders will likely respond appropriately and sense when something just isn't right. So again, sometimes our greatest strength and gift is to promote that awareness, which you have done. Regarding specifics, moms who call multiple times is a good one, moms who seem to be perseverating, but then again, we need to be careful because we may be asking nurses to assess or diagnose when they may not be trained to do so or may misinterpret. I think it's best to be vague and stimulate their desire to be on the lookout for anything that doesn't "feel right" to them, know what I mean?
ReplyDeleteYep, great feedback Karen. I think you are spot on in terms of being vague so they are not in the position of clinican.
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