Talking to MD

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I work as a new RN in LTC. I am worring how to talk to MD during phone call. English is my second language. Actually I speak well but when I am under stress I just don't know what to say. Can anybody tell me what you are saying when MD calls to ask some questions regarding pt or to give you a new order?

Thanks in advance!

My sister tells this story on herself and I'll pass it along. She was a new RN working in a CCU and a patient was admitted with an irregular atrial rhythm and a peculiar heart sound. She called the Cardiologist and was trying to describe this. He said, 'what does the heart sound like?' She said, 'you know when you have just one tennis shoe in the drier? It sounds like that.' Her patient had new onset atrial fibrillation and was treated correctly. What you can describe accurately to the best of your ability really is the best you can do! SBAR and fresh vital signs and lab results and current meds are important, YES! But don't be afraid to tell the MD what you hear and see and smell. You are his/her ears and eyes and nose.

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Specializes in Professional Development Specialist.

You've gotten great advice. But remember that doctors are just people. They are not someone you need to fear in any way. And there are some doctors who will put you on the spot or yell just to see you squirm. If you know you are calling one of those, then just prepare yourself before calling and let it roll off your back. In time the docs in LTC will know you and learn to respect you (except for Dr Jerk, who respects no one) and it will get easier. Eventually it will be like talking to a coworker, and not at all scary.

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Specializes in Trauma/Tele/Surgery/SICU.

Chare,

I really like the I pass the baton link you provided. Just moved into a new area of nursing and report is soo much different, I am kinda having trouble wrapping my head around what really NEEDS to be communicated, I tend to give way too much info. I think I am going to print a copy and keep with me. Much easier than having a bunch of little notes scrawled all over the place.

Thanks

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Thank you everyone!

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