Okay, for years I have applied a test whenever I meet a new doctor, whether it’s as a colleague, socially, or as a patient.
“Got time? Got a reflex hammer? Wondering if you can help me with this symptom I’m having,” it starts.
Almost any implement will do if a reflex hammer is not available. Most docs don’t seem to carry one these days.
crossposted from my other blog. I am in Nepal again, teaching critical care nursing skills, and if you want to read about healthcare in a country with no national system whatsoever you can check out my blog. www.joeniemczura.wordpress.com
I did this on a transpacific flight too, once, for a gorgeous babe across the aisle, who giggled and said "I have that too! Does your migrate like mine?!?!?" After which a nine-hour flight seemed to be over in a half-hour. But I digress.
It's a test of the sense of humor. If the doctor in question does not laugh immediately, I make a mental note never to seek assistance from that person no matter how dire.
So, I sit.
And tap the right patellar reflex zone, upon which
the left leg jumps.
Get it?
Last evening I was introduced to a young veterinarian from Galway, here to volunteer with an NGO that spays and neuters the many stray critters of this town. Mostly dogs. ( Nepal needs this.....yes it does).
"You learn about large mammals in vet school, don't you?" Sez I.
"Yes, mainly cattle, pigs and horses."
"Well, I wonder if you can explain this symptom I have been having? Got a reflex hammer?"
"Vets don't usually use that tool," he sez warily.
"Watch." And I showed him my reflex.
He laughed, an unselfconscious Irish laugh. With a wide grin he said:
"Saints be praised," he said, then turned serious, "I'm afraid you're going to have to be put down. Wait right here. I'll be back in a minute with a syringe."
Simply not on the list of answers any family practice doc ever gave me.
:-)