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I work in a hospital where most of the doctors are ESL (English as a Second Language). I have a hard time understanding some of them. Sometimes I have to ask them to repeat their orders because I can hardly understand. One doctor flipped on me and ask me whether I'm a nurse. Another one told me to get more training. I'm extremely feel discouraged. I'm an ESL as well, and I wonder if it has something to do with my language skill.

What would you ask (or how would you ask) a doctor to repeat what they're saying wihout making them flip on you?

Thanks

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Specializes in NICU, ICU, PICU, Academia.

I'm not really sure what you mean by "flip on you" but I would repeat what you think they said (as you should anyhow) and ask for clarification if it doesn't match. Thicker skin will help - some people are just jerks.

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Specializes in SICU, trauma, neuro.

Inform them that 1) they are to enter their own orders, and 2) unprofessional behaviors will be reported.

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I've apologised for not understanding and handed them a piece of paper asking them to please write down what they want.

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Specializes in NICU.
I've apologised for not understanding and handed them a piece of paper asking them to please write down what they want.

Have you seen some of their writing, it is like deciphering sanskrit?

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"I want to make certain I heard you correctly." Make yourself the problem, for their ego bashing. They are well aware that people have a hard time understanding them.

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