Good Conversations

For good care, lead good conversations. Here’s how.

Last week, I shared a story about my mother’s recent ER experience. You may recall how horrified I was when a nurse mistakenly believed I was refusing a medication for my mother, Margaret. Fortunately, a good conversation cleared that up. 

But then something else came up about medications during mom’s ER care that day: I actually requested a medication for her. In fact, I insisted during a good conversation with the ER doctor. 

What happened? 

Mom had taken a bad fall and suffered a huge black eye and a deep forehead gash. The ER doc immediately ordered a head CT scan and leg x-rays, which required moving her from the hospital bed to both machines and back each time. 

Mom’s piercing screams and cries of “my hip, my hip” made it clear to everyone she was in excruciating pain. I tracked down the doctor, shared my mother’s outcries, and asked that she receive pain medication right away. 

His response: “I haven’t seen the x-rays yet, but when I do, I’ll order something.”  

So…I persisted: “What more evidence do you need to treat her pain than my mother’s cries?” 

To his credit, the doctor replaced hospital procedure with compassion: he ordered a pain med on the spot.  

Last week, we shared this “care equation” with you ­–

One Good facts + Good conversations + Good intentions= Good decisions

As our experience shows, this “math” holds up. Tuck it away for any time you may need to advocate for someone you love – or for yourself.

And remember, we offer you lots of free grab-and-go guides for good conversations with doctors and nurses. (Since we’re on the topic, check out our ER care guide.) They’re all real-world simple, and really helpful!