Hi Colleen,
Thanks for your response. The surgeon (or a designated team member) needs to empower the patient regarding the risks and benefits of the surgery. It does not need to be the surgeon, but a designated team member needs to be present, to further de-role the patient with the ‘news’, as the surgeon moves on the their next appointment.
Post-op recovery is different for everyone, plus there re so many variables that influence recovery…that the surgical team needs to know about the patient. Such as – availability of support systems; transportation; quality of life issues etc…
The patient needs to have some idea of the length of recovery and what to expect; and what ‘rules’ they must follow for the best medical outcome…and what rules might be a challenge, based on the patient’s life circumstances.
Many surgical outcomes are not met, as the patient did not have adequate information, or adequate understanding.
Critical pieces of information require a minimum of 7 different ways or repetitions for comprehension to begin. Patients are almost always intimidated by the medical professionals (regardless of how laid back or easy going they are) and surgical teams (any healthcare team) need to understand and realize its impact on communication.
ieva
