“When I worked at ABC Hospital, there were no signs reminding personnel to wash their hands. Unfortunately, research shows that less than 50 percent of medical personnel consistently wash their hands. This behavior jeopardizes the health of patients every day, so I brought the issue up to the patient safety committee. The hospital began putting signs in bathrooms, and the rates of patients who got sick in our hospital dropped by 15 percent.”

“I would set up a meeting between the two of us to get an understanding of what communication methods we’re both comfortable with. One idea is for me to email her at the end of each workday with any notable questions or concerns and hear back within 24 hours. We would also discuss in advance what aspects we are comfortable with me covering, for example, prescribing specific medications but not others.”

“Two years ago, a patient we’ll call Jane came into the ER in a cold sweat and complaining of jaw pain. I had read a study about women’s heart attack symptoms often being ignored, so when the physician insisted I release Jane after barely looking at her, I refused. As it turned out, Jane wasn’t having a heart attack, but I sought out the physician and explained why I did what I did. I showed him the study, which was eye-opening for him too.”

“During the appointment is one of the worst times to take a complete medical history. Patients are nervous, time is short, they may be missing work and physician assistants and doctors are likely running behind schedule, too. So, what I like to do is have the patient fill out a packet of documents before the visit. It lays out the rationale behind needing a complete medical history and gives them time to make additions.”

“A lot of the time, patients are in denial about the seriousness of their situation. They expect me to help them while they don’t help themselves. I try to put myself in their shoes, though, acknowledging that bad behaviors such as smoking have helped them cope with life.”

“Medical care should be accessible to everyone, and I love that your hospital has different programs and pricing structures so that virtually anyone can come here. You’re truly a community hospital.”

"In this situation, I would consult with the physician. I understand that my medical knowledge can only go so far, and there comes a point where you need to rely on your team members for help. The ultimate goal is to accurately diagnose your patients so they can start receiving the care they need."