Advice to Medical Students - your thoughts
Hi all, as a BCNA Community Liaison I have the opportunity to speak to a group of 2nd Year Medical Students at the University of Sydney next week as part of their Oncology Unit. The talk will focus o...
Forum Discussion
I'd like to suggest be proactive. When someone says they have have a bit of tingling, ask about it and suggest whatever you can to alleviate it, don't wait till they are hobbling, dropping stuff and panicky. Ask if you are keeping an eye on your arm fluid if you have had an axillary clearance. Investigate the benefits of massage for persistent seromas.
Be polite, tell people your name and ask theirs. But don't be familiar, I am not your dear.
Try really hard to read the file before you talk to a patient - asking someone who has lymphoedema, peripheral neuropathy, had chemo, lost a breast, and now appears to have atrial fibrillation if they are anxious about anything, deserves the answer it got!!
My lovely surgeon discussed options for surgery with recommendations, breast reconstruction at the start, never hurried me (actually preferred to wait) and totally accepts my decision not to do reconstruction at all. I haven't had too many things I have run to him about, but each one has been handled thoughtfully and without rushing. He celebrates every clear year with a hug. My oncologist can sit and have a robust discussion about some aspect of treatment without getting all defensive and seems actually to welcome my interest and questions.
And there are better ways to deal with sapped morale or possible depression than taking pills. Be open to other disciplines and a more holistic approach if possible.
Thank you for asking, hope it goes really well.