Patients’ Rights
Dear Frankie,
Recently the vet cut several large fatty lumps out of my back that required many stitches.
When he finished the surgery, he put a cone around my neck and told me I had to keep it on for two weeks. When I objected, he said the cone was the only way he could be sure that I wouldn’t lick or chew my stitches.
I was furious that I had to wear a cone for his peace of mind and was insulted that he didn’t trust me to follow his post-op instructions.
Driving home, my mom came up with the bright idea that we should go over to the dog park for a short visit.
I dreaded going knowing that the dogs would razz me unmercifully for looking like a dork.
As expected, several dogs did mouth off, and it was as painful as I thought it would be. When I look back on that day, it could have been so different if the vet had taken the time to discuss why the cone was necessary and asked me rather than told me I had to wear it.
I genuinely believe I would have agreed and felt better because I was asked to consent.
Do you agree, or do you think I am just fooling myself?
Rupert
Dear Rupert,
I’m sorry your vet didn’t explain that a cone is a necessary evil for dogs recovering from surgery.
If he had, I do believe you would have agreed to wear one despite its physical and mental discomfort. Wounds itch when they heal, and despite your best intentions, it’s hard to resist scratching or biting an annoying itch.
I agree that patients have a right to discuss and consent to their treatment and recovery plan. Feeling respected as a patient and confident about your care is an essential part of recovery
As for your dork issue, are you sure this is how the other dogs saw you? Could this be more about how you see yourself? Could it be you have difficulty being seen wounded or less than perfect? I’m no psychologist, just offering some food for thought.
Best, Frankie
© 2021 Geneva Woodruff
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