We are mandated by law to have patients fill out metal questionnaires before we can scan them. I was interviewing a patient recently and stopped at the list of surgeries. I'm standing with the patient and got to a surgery that I wasn't sure of the exact anatomy he was referring to. We must make sure that patients do not have aneurysm clips in their heads first and foremost. So, when I encountered the following, I was puzzled. It looked like this:
Surgeries and date: Harods
I know you can't guess it either. I reluctantly asked the pt and he repeated this word exactly like it's spelled, "You know, my harods." OK so where exactly is that? "My harods" again was repeated. Finally he pointed at his............... behind. Oh - Hemorrhoids! Oops, sorry to embarrass you and call attention to the scene of the crime. I understand that hemorrhoids are definitely a crime against your behind.
So, I wrote the word down and recanted the scenario to one of my docs. I asked him what surgery he assumed it was. He said oh yeah that's Harrington rods. Nope, guess again, and say it out loud. Suddenly he got it and got a good chuckle from that one.
Remember, we aren't making fun of, we are merely exuming some joy and laughter from a hard day's work. Think about us the next time you go in for a scan. We love to take an unpleasant time in your life when you're hurting and at your worst, and turn it into the best possible experience you can have. I work hard with my claustrophobic patients to get them done as fast and comfortably as possible. It's not everyday that a person needs to have one of my tests done, but I make sure that the experience is a positive one. If I can make a person laugh or smile when they are feeling their worst, I have accomplished my own personal goals.
Wishing you much health and happiness on this Easter day!
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