Published
This may be a bit off the wall but here goes.
I'm not a nurse YET. But while in the military I recieved more medical training (ALS) than the normal troop and through out my life I have tried to stay up to date and educated in the field of medicine.
I am no where near as educated as a CNA or a nurse but I know enough to be dangerous. hehe.
My question is this. What do you feel about a pt who knows what is wrong with him or her.
As an example and this may be TMI but it is relevant.
I have an enlarged testicle. No pain. I researched all possible causes and conditions. I came to the conclusion on my own that it was a Hydrocele. But I am not a doctor. So I did the smart thing which I always do and went to see my MD. As the nurse was doing my assement I told her of my findings and what I thought it might be. After all the tests I am back in the exam room and see my MD getting out a book and looking up my symptoms so he can make a diagnosis. After reading he come in the room and tells me I am correct. I have a cool doc. He then asks me the treatment. Which I tell him and I am correct. How cool is that. As an aside here I need surgery to fix it.
Does it irritate you or is it helpful if the patient has an good idea as to what is wrong with them?
bakpakr
88 Posts
I do tend to diagnose myself. But I am not yet a healthcare professional. So if it is something out of the ordinary for me I.E my hydrocele I let my MD make the diagnosis. I know my limitations and stay with in them. My health and my family's heath is more important than me playing doctor. I just like to know what is going on so that I can make informed decisions based on my knowledge and recommendations of my MD.
Now I just have to come up with about $700 for my CNA class. hehe Then after that is done onward and upward. I can't believe I am going back to school. It is so exciting and intimidating all at the same time. Been out of school since 1979.