A breast cancer diagnosis can be one of the most frightening moments of a woman’s life. Aside from the support of her loving friends and family, what a breast cancer patient needs the most during this trying time is a supportive medical team who will provide both exceptional treatment and emotional support.
If you’re a medical professional who works with breast cancer patients, you might feel like you’re under a lot of pressure and stress. Here are some tips on how to be the best you can be when working with your breast cancer patients.
Be Patient and Understanding
As a medical professional, you’re used to all of the terminology and procedures associated with cancer treatment. However, your patients will likely not understand all of the terms and phrases that you use. For example, you might know what a DIEP flap reconstruction surgery is, but your patient will need it explained in very simple terms. Keep this in mind when conversing with your patient.
Be Strong But Empathetic
Health professionals walk a very fine line when it comes to finding the balance between being stoic and being receptive to their patients’ emotions. While you want to appear strong so that your patient doesn’t panic, you also don’t want to appear cold or emotionless. While it’s important to be a pillar of strength that your patient can count on, it’s also important to show empathy and care.
For more information about how your facility can improve the safety of its DIEP flap reconstruction procedures, visit Sharp Fluidics.
