Vignettes from Work

From the 85 year-old stroke patient, "Do you see this wrinkle-free 40 year-old face? It's because I never worry. I find someone else to worry for me."

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This next is an exchange between one of the occupational therapists and a 77 year-old stroke patient. Often, after a stroke, patients become incontinent, thus, frequently patients need adult-sized 'diapers' (for lack of a better word). 

      OT: Mrs. L., I thought you might want to try these new briefs. They're more comfortable."

      Mrs. L.: "Oh. You wear them too?"

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I think I may need to get my ears checked. Mrs. M. was telling me about her daughter.

     What I heard: "Actually, she's a man."

     What she said: "Actually, she's in Japan."

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Nothing is quite as awkward as walking in a patient when they're confused. Especially when they're confused and they've taken off all their clothing. Thank heaven for CNAs. I don't envy them their jobs.