What's wrong with me?

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Specializes in Assisted Living, Med-Surg/CVA specialty.

I know you can't really give medical advice here but I have an odd situation. I think it's something like white coat syndrome, but all the research I've done on it just said white coat syndrome is related to blood pressure.

As a nurse, I know I'll be working with doctors on a regular basis but when I go to the doctor for something myself (regular appts, being ill, etc.) I end up CRYING. FOR NO REASON?! Why do I do this?! I dont know if it's because I am embarassed about a situation I'm in or maybe something happened when I was a child with a doctor?

I'm afraid once I start working (I just got my LPN in January and hope to start a nursing position in May... I've had to wait because of school) I'm going to try to talk to a doctor about another pt and end up busting out in tears for no reason.. and don't even get me started on what I think might happen if a doctor gets pissed at me.

Has anyone else had experience with this?

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Specializes in CRNA, Finally retired.

There IS a reason - you just don't know what it is. Try to remember systematically (starting with the present going back) to when this started. If would be nice if you could talk with a professional about this before starting to work. This anxiety could make your work like very distressing. Also start doing some research on contolling anxiety in acute situations. There's lots of techniques that can help you control the physical manifestations even if you don't know the cause. Square breathing is enormously helpful in getting your heart rate down. Good luck.

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Specializes in Hospital Education Coordinator.

I think that in time you will realize they are people too and not be so intimidated. This is especially true when you feel comfortable in your role. Think of them as "guests" and it is your job to make THEM comfortable. I find that takes the focus off me.

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Specializes in Operating Room, Med-Surg, Home Care.

Hi Megananne 7-

I have noticed that people sometimes cry at appointments because they feel vulnerable. As a nurse, you will be working together with them, planning care for your patient, which is very different. If a doctor gets annoyed with you, just remember, they are not your parents or relatives. Always be your professional best, and I bet you will do a fine job. Take care

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Specializes in Geriatrics.

I think what you are referring to is white coat hypertension. It is an episode of elevated B/P when it is taken by a health care professional. It is attributed to anxiety regarding medical examination procedures or fear of possible findings. I found this in my tabers. Hope this helps.

Nursetweety

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Specializes in Assisted Living, Med-Surg/CVA specialty.
I think what you are referring to is white coat hypertension. It is an episode of elevated B/P when it is taken by a health care professional. It is attributed to anxiety regarding medical examination procedures or fear of possible findings. I found this in my tabers. Hope this helps.

Nursetweety

I know what it is but my concern isnt the hypertension (which I'm sure I do have cause my anxiety is sky high).. it's the crying.
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maybe it's crying related to frustration

as well as anxiety

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