Exam Info

Explain Yourself!

Yesterday, when I was talking about EKGs, I mentioned the importance of telling what you are doing. This is a follow-up on that.

Explaining yourself is important in everything we do in this business, not just with EKGs. Because while you know what you're doing, 99% of the people you see don't have a clue about what you're doing and why. Sometimes people will ask, but more often, they'll just look puzzled. If they ask, you answer. If you don't know the answer, say so (nothing is more amazing in life than honesty), but tell them you'll get back with them about the answer.

So I'm pretty chatty with folks. Even when I don't feel like it. Explain, for example, a lot of stuff about blood draws, since most people (even those familar with them) are pretty nervous about it. I explain why I'm putting a touriquet on their arm and why I'm breaking the seal on the needle. (Which also has the effect of letting them know that the needle is new: some older folks remember when needles were re-used. They might not ask out loud, but some of them will wonder if the needle you're using on them is new). I explain that the tubes are vacuum tubes, and that the blood will just go in, and that there's nothing they have to do. That sort of thing.

Part of being a professional is that we have knowledge that the general public doesn't have. Anyone can sweep a floor. You, however, have particular knowledge and skills that you're using to do your job. Just let your clients know that you do, and what it means to them. They will appreciate it, and it will make your job easier.

posted by Jim Huffman @ 9:18 AM