What to Avoid Saying to a Doctor During Surgery: Maintaining Professionalism

When undergoing surgery, it's crucial to maintain a professional and respectful atmosphere. Here are some things you should never say to a doctor during this critical time to ensure the procedure goes smoothly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

During surgery, there are several common pitfalls to avoid when it comes to your communication with the medical team. These not only impact the quality of the procedure but can also disrupt the sterile environment and the overall well-being of the surgical team.

Undermining Confidence

Saying, "You look tired" or "Come on, who is trained here?" can undermine the surgeon's confidence and create doubt about their skills. Surgeons are highly trained professionals, and expressing doubt can introduce unnecessary stress and concern about their abilities.

Misguided Internet Information

Mentioning, "I read on the Internet that... " can bring in unverified and potentially irrelevant information, which can be distracting and counterproductive for the team. While staying informed is important, relying on online information can distract from the critical tasks at hand.

Unnecessary Anxiety

Expressing anxiety or making fear-based comments like "I have a bad feeling about this" can increase anxiety for both you and the medical team. Instead, deep breaths and positive affirmations can help maintain a calm and focused environment.

Inappropriate Requests

Asking for food or drink during surgery (if your doctor hasn't informed you otherwise) or suggesting changes to the surgical plan can be inappropriate. Patients should be fasting before the procedure, and allowing the team to proceed according to their plan is essential for safety and success.

Disruptive Humor and Jokes

While humor can be good in some contexts, making jokes during a serious procedure can disrupt the sterile environment. Surgeons and staff need to maintain focus and composure to ensure the procedure is performed safely and efficiently.

Questioning Expertise

Basing your concerns on third-party information, such as, "My previous doctor did it differently", can create misconceptions and tension. Each surgeon uses their best knowledge and techniques, and comparing their methods can be unhelpful.

Unproductive Requests

Requesting to see the procedure, even if you're the patient, can hinder the surgical team's ability to work effectively. They need to focus entirely on the procedure, and a request to observe can detract from their focus.

Time-sensitive Circumstances

Urging the surgeon to hurry up can compromise the quality of the procedure. Saying, "Is that supposed to happen?" can sound accusatory and may add unnecessary stress to the critical process. Surgeons are professionals and know best the appropriate timing and methodology for each step.

Respecting the Team

It's important to keep in mind that the surgical team is fully trained and dedicated to your care. Addressing concerns before the procedure starts allows the team to focus on the task at hand without disruptions. Here are some additional points to remember:

Stay quiet and allow the surgical team to concentrate on the procedure. Follow the medical team's instructions carefully for the best outcomes. Communicate any serious concerns to the medical team before the surgery if at all possible.

Conclusion

By avoiding these common pitfalls and following the medical team's instructions, you can help ensure a smooth and successful surgery. Maintaining a professional and respectful atmosphere during the procedure is crucial for the well-being of both you and the medical team.

Additional Resources

For more information on surgery etiquette and preparing for your procedure, check out these resources:

Surgical Doctors - Surgery Etiquette Patient Handbook - Surgery Guide Medical News Today - What to Expect During Surgery

Remember, your cooperation and respect for the surgical team can greatly impact the success of your procedure. Stay calm, follow instructions, and keep any worries or concerns to a minimum.