Question

A 35-year-old male patient is scheduled for a vasectomy tomorrow. It is within your scope of practice to provide preoperative instruction and you feel confident in performing this task. When you introduce yourself and explain what you are going to do, the first words out of the patient’s mouth are “How do you know what this is all about? I am the one who is getting things cut!” How would you respond to this patient?

Answer 1

Vasectomy is a most sensitive procedure for a patient both physically and emotionally. When trying to explain make sure the patient's self respect and self dignity are maintained.Even a single wrongful word or action can make the patient feel so embarrassed. The best thing to explain is by saying the experience in this particular field which can make the patient to self think and understand about the knowledge of the staff. Reassurance to be given that this procedure is widely carried upon patient's best interest and plan.

Answer 2

Remaining calm when a patient becomes agitated can sometimes help calm the patient. The important issue in this case is making sure the patient receives all of the information he needs—if not from you, then from another qualified person in the office.