I have the ballet of maneuvering around these pre-op cubicles figured out.
Take three steps back, the third being to the right; it’s kind of a waltz, while taking the wall mounted computer tray with me. Then I swing back to my right as the surgery team takes my patient, in bed of course, feet first, toward the OR suites.
“You’ll do great Mr. Doe. You’ve prepared well for this surgery.” I leaned in to give him his Versed (think Valium in a wine glass).
“I love you,” he said wide eyed.
I feelmy face get warm.
Then I notice his wife standing behind my left shoulder.
Ugghh.
I know, I know.
I thought I had a big save when I turned to the wife and giggled, “They normally say that to me.”
My coworkers had fun with it the rest of the day.
Ha! I told the nurse anesthetist that I loved him after he did the epidural with my first child. Pain/anxiety control can be a beautiful, very emotional thing…
I have names for our group of anesthesiologists: Zeus, Hercules, Apollo…
great response! I love people w/ a sense of humor.