Physicians and lack of caring

[Guest guest]

- when I read this, I get so angry at health care professionals....as many of you know, I was a nurse for 25 years before I became disabled. I always taught my patients to advocate for themselves...to write questions down before you go to the appointment...don't be afraid to ask questions...get a second or third opinion if you aren't happy with the physician....BUT, I never realised that you have to do this because either doctors have too many patients or just don't care....when I get my vital signs taken...it's NOT by a nurse....I've had some take my blood pressure in a manner that I knew they weren't doing it right...but they wrote a number down. Last time I went to a doctor, the girl asked what my blood pressure usually was...I quickly told her without thinking, but then I wondered if she does that because she isn't sure of her own technique....of course, when she took my pressure...it was exactly the number I told her. These pseudo nurses have no compassion....I feel like a number that has to get in the room....see the doctor and then get out because there's someone else waiting to be seen. When I was placed on oxygen...I was given a prescription and sent home....the home care company delivered the oxygen, explained how to use everything...put it on my and then left. No one asked if I was coping with all this....loss of job...using oxygen 24 hours a day...they acted like this was no big deal!!!

I am so outraged and embarassed to be a part of that profession....but I'm so worried for all those people out there who are dealing with illness. It is really scary.

But, this group is a godsend.....it helps me to have people to talk with....I don't have IPF, but my lungs are very small due to a severely curved spine. My situation is unique...I've asked my doctors if they have any other patients like me and they don't. I always knew I was different!! LOL

If I can help by giving information, I'm happy to do it. Keep writing to us...we understand and you are not alone.

--Diane Quinlan dianequinlan@...

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My biggest frustration is the attitude of the pulmonologists in my new location. They see me as I am now....after 2.5 years of struggle, backslides, and personal refusal to give up. They try and tell me that, even with my 52% diffusion, I am healthy and should not be concerned about lung disease or right ventricular heart failure!