Section III. BEDSIDE MANNER
1-7.
INTRODUCTION
In a medical world dominated by sophisticated technology and specialization of
medical treatment and training, it is no wonder that the human aspect of medical care is
often neglected. As health care becomes more sophisticated and specialized, many
health care providers tend to become extremely task-oriented, focusing in on the illness
rather than the person who is ill. As a result, many patients have emotional needs that
are never met. The body and the mind are both integral parts of the healing process.
One cannot be stressed to the exclusion of the other.
1-8.
DEFINING HEALTH CARE PROVIDER
Regardless of your MOS, if you have any type of contact with a patient or his
family and friends, you have an influence on that patient's well being. Your presence in
itself can affect a patient's mood. Since different patients seek information from
different sources, patients often save their questions for health care providers with
whom they feel comfortable or with whom they can identify. Whether your relationship
with the patient is as an entry-level medic, a practical nurse, a professional nurse, a
doctor, a pharmacy technician, or a receptionist, you have an effect on his recovery.
For purposes of this subcourse, you can consider yourself to be a health care provider if
you have any type of contact with a patient or his family and friends.
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