The general approach to the difficult patient

J. Adams*, R. Murray

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

29 Scopus citations

Abstract

Difficult patients are familiar to emergency physicians. This article explores characteristics of the difficult patient, recognized emergency department processes, and physician characteristics that can contribute to difficulties. These difficulties can be minimized by caregivers who are skilled in managing the therapeutic relationship. This relationship is characterized by firm boundaries, good communication, patient trust, wisdom, and an effective system that supports both patients and caregivers.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)689-700
Number of pages12
JournalEmergency Medicine Clinics of North America
Volume16
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 1998

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Emergency Medicine

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