With the advent of
technology, people are reaching out to Google to get an answer for just about
anything. The world of the internet feels tempting, as it is able to quickly
resolve any query that a person may have. However when it comes to medical
conditions, this may not always be true. People often choose the
self-diagnosing path to avoid seeing a doctor. However, self-diagnosing
yourself over the internet can do more harm than good.
People who self-diagnose
assume that they know the details the diagnosis constitutes. But they do not
know that this process can be very dangerous as they can miss nuances of the
diagnosis. For instance, people with mood-swings often feel that they are
suffering from bipolar disorder, however the symptoms can be a part of another
condition entirely.
Related: Where do Registered Nurses Work?
Related: Where do Registered Nurses Work?
Another danger of
self-diagnosing diseases, is that you may neglect medical conditions that
subterfuge other diseases. Thus, if you are suffering from one condition, you
may miss the diagnosis of another. If you start treating the disorder with
over-the-counter drugs, you might completely overlook the medical syndrome.
Self-diagnosing a disease
undermines the role of the doctor. It is important that you trust your doctor,
and if you are not able to do so, try changing doctors, but avoid
self-diagnosis. You should have an active discussion with your doctor and if
you are unsure about the their diagnosis, seek the opinion of another doctor.
One of the greatest
dangers of self-diagnosing is that patients often end up thinking they are
sicker than they actually are. Eventually, you make things worse by worrying
about something that doesn't even exist. Self-diagnosis usually occurs when you
are in a state of denial, and don’t want to walk up to a doctor to get the
right diagnosis.
Communication
is Important
Communication is key to a
good relationship. If a patient has diagnosed their symptoms incorrectly, make
sure you approach the situation delicately. Acknowledge the effort he has put
into it, and help them diagnose the disease correctly, educating them on
various diagnosing techniques related to the disease they suffer from.
Related: The Best Ways to Relieve Stress on the Job
Related: The Best Ways to Relieve Stress on the Job
Never come across with
patients as dismissive and arrogant, rather talk to them politely and help them
understand your point. By tackling the situation with understanding, you can
develop a great rapport with patients and increase trust.
Pass
on the Right Information
As a nurse, it is your
duty to pass on the right information to your patients. On average, people
generally spend one week per month seeking medical information, thus we are
becoming more educationally equipped to take care of our health. However,
erroneous diagnoses are attributed to non-medically trained individuals,
causing lapses in judgement related to the condition.
As a nurse, you should not
only help patients diagnose their problem but should also educate them. Talk to
them about the danger of self-diagnosing. Medical practitioners should work in
the best interest of the patients. Being knowledgeable in the field, doctors
and nurses should listen to the patients, and work in tandem with them to make
sure the best advice and medications are prescribed.
Related: The International Nurses Association is pleased to welcome Jacqueline Jane Clason, RN, Ba App Sc-Nursing, CM to their prestigious organization with her upcoming publication in the Worldwide Leaders in Healthcare
Related: The International Nurses Association is pleased to welcome Jacqueline Jane Clason, RN, Ba App Sc-Nursing, CM to their prestigious organization with her upcoming publication in the Worldwide Leaders in Healthcare
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