Friday, January 8, 2010

Verbigeration

When we see a patient, we listen to their complaints and then try to ask questions that help us reach a diagnosis or at least a point from which to procede. Some people however are very evasive and instead of answering questions, just say the same things over again and again. A classic one is "it hurts!". So, you ask "what hurts?" and they reply"it does, it hurts!". So, you have to ask "what is it that hurts?" Instead of answering what "it" is, they then go on to a new complaint that is as vague as the first, saying the same thing over and over. Now this new thing hurts, but we have no idea what the new thing is. Each time, they say the same thing over again and again, but it has no meaning! Eventually, they just on and on and you have no clue what they are talking about. When you try to pin them down on specifics, they get frustrated and just fall back on repeating their nonsensical litany. My favorite is when they say "Let me be clear! " and they aren't. I have had to learn to tell some patients that in order to help them, it is important that they try to answer my questions as specifically as possible.

Just out of curiosity, when is the last time the President had to answer questions from the public or the press?

1 comment:

SeaSpray said...

I had to look the title up because I didn't know if it was a real word or you were being clever. I learned something new. I get my homework when reading over here. ;)

That must be frustrating for you. (I did chuckle a little while reading it though.:) I know as a patient I can be chatty or ask a lot of questions and try to tone it down. (My docs are so good with me) I've got a big one for my doc on Monday if i still think it's a good idea and comfortable asking. :)

I don't think Obama ever takes the questions like I have seen other presidents do. And then he drags on too long and so he doesn't get that many. Well ..we have the State of the Union Spin to look forward too soon.

Then Gibbs the press secretary..i think the reporters should walk out on him ..he's awful and condescending.