In the course of their professional duties, physicians can encounter disrespectful patients. When this happens, there are various strategies that the physician can use to cope with such a situation.
- The physician can gather information in an attempt to find the source of this problem, which can help to prevent repeat incidences of disrespect in the future.
- Communicating with the angry patient to determine the source of their anger.
- It is important for the physician to remain cool throughout the encounter and in extreme cases, to terminate the professional relationship.
- Shaking off the encounter and not taking it personally.
- Setting clear boundaries that should not be crossed by the patient.
- Avoiding engaging the patient in back and forth arguments that can escalate the situation.
- Being empathetic and attempting to understand what the patient might be going through.
- Engaging the patient in reasonable conversations to reduce tension.
- Re-engaging the patient after addressing their inappropriate behavior.
- Undergoing training on the best tactics to handle such situations.
- Ensure that any interaction with the patient is non-confrontational.
- Attempt to communicate with manipulative patients.
- Set limits on expectations from patients by having clearly written policies and guidelines.
- Collaborating with the team to find the best way to resolve such issues.
Resources:
8 Ways to Deal with Difficult Patients – PHYSICIANS PRACTICE
6 Tips for Dealing with Difficult Patients – Jacksonville University
How to Handle Difficult Patients – Ausmed
How to Deal With ‘Problem’ Patients at Your Healthcare Practice – PatientPop
How to Address Inappropriate Patient Behavior – HealthLeaders
Source: AskWonder