I know this is a sensitive topic to all. My question refers to how would all of you handle this situation that actually occurred in a pt's room preop. I am most interested in how NOT to overreact but to correct the impression left on the pt and family by the MD. What happened:
Pt being prepped somewhat 'emergently electively'. Pt and family present. OR crew, CRNA providing anesthesia for pt and MDA in room all together reviewing procedure, prepping to roll to OR. pt daughter (distressed and acting inappropriate by flirting with all males present in room) at one point made the mistake of referring to the CRNA as 'Doctor'. CRNA politely corrected pt daughter by giving a short explanation of his role/title to daughter.I dont remember exactly what he said but it was basically 'I'm a nurse anesthetist and I'll be giving your dad the anesthesia to get him to sleep for surgery'. SHortly later, daughter again referred to CRNA as 'doctor' (she was most likely not processing any info given due to the stress). Here the MD stepped in and corrected the daughter by stating (direct quote)
Oh, he is not the doctor, he is just one of our support staff.
The CRNA did not say anything about this. I was a lot annoyed and began wondering if the CRNA is 'support staff' how does she (the MDA) view nurses etc she works with??How would all of you have responded to assert your role and also not ruffle the MD's feathers?? Not trying to be inflammatory just want diplomatic responses!