Unexpected Moments in Medical Practice Beyond the Job Description

As a seasoned medical practitioner, my daily routine is usually quite structured. One particularly memorable instance, however, stands out as a remarkable deviation from the norm. A seemingly inconsequential request led to a series of events that highlighted the tangible impact we have on our patients' lives.

A Private Mission of Condolence

One day, I was interrupted by my receptionist, who informed me that a gentleman at the front desk wanted to speak with me privately, right away. His request seemed out of the ordinary, as he did not need an appointment for a consultation. His urgency was palpable, but I was cautious, wondering if he was simply a pushy salesman looking to pitch something. However, he introduced himself as the husband of a woman who had recently passed away, and he requested that I go to the funeral home to 'see her.' My initial reaction was a mix of shock and intrigue, leading me to inquire about the reasoning behind his request.

An Extraordinary Request

The gentleman explained that his wife's remains were in the funeral home and he believed it would be more comforting for her if a doctor from her hospital was present. His request was not to engage in any formalities or legal proceedings, but rather to offer a moment of dignity and closure. I was taken aback by the significance of this request and the respect he had for the medical profession. I agreed to visit the funeral home to pay my respects in private.

Unexpected Duties in Patient Care

In the medical field, there are moments when duties extend far beyond the typical job description. For instance, a patient's family member once wanted me to return 75 cents she had lost in a soda machine or get her the soda. I initially dismissed the request, but recognizing the significance of small gestures, I saw it fit to help. Often, such moments can greatly impact a patient's perception of their care.

Performing Beyond Standards

As a doctor, we are trained to handle a wide range of tasks, from more routine responsibilities to those that seem far removed from our typical duties. In one instance, I was an intern working the night shift on the wards. One evening, I was tasked with admitting a 60-year-old man with symptomatic anemia. Upon admission, everything seemed fine, and I went through the necessary procedures, including taking a peripheral blood film. This practice, while standard, can have significant consequences. The lab technician identified a blast cell, which is a telltale sign of leukemia. Unfortunately, the patient was discharged before I could warn the attending physician, as his contact information was not available.

The Urgent Call to Authorities

Recognizing the potential danger to this patient, I contacted the police to locate him. Thankfully, they were able to track him down and he received proper follow-up with hematological services. This experience underscored the importance of adhering to standard procedures and not letting any detail slip through the cracks.

Conclusion

These moments, though unexpected and diverse, serve as a testament to the multifaceted duties of a medical professional. From providing comfort and closure to performing critical diagnostic tasks, our roles extend much further than the prescribed limits of our job descriptions. Each case not only highlights the importance of diligence and compassion but also emphasizes the profound impact we have on the lives of our patients.