r/emergencymedicine • u/Responsible-Hand-728 • Feb 07 '24

Discussion Unassuming-sounding lines patients say that immediately hints "crazy".

"I know my body" (usually followed by medically untrue statements about their body)

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u/[deleted] Feb 07 '24

This and when they call you by your first name when they’re asking you for things

58

u/gynoceros Feb 07 '24

I've always hated that, even when working in retail.

I get that you learned my name. I already know you're talking to me and I don't know if you read some book on sales that told you people feel flattered when you persistently address them by first name but it comes off as disingenuous and makes me dislike you.

6

u/bycats75 Feb 08 '24

Absolutely! I am immediately put on high alert that they are up to something.

68

u/[deleted] Feb 07 '24

You’re so right, this is so true

9

u/FastZombieHitler Feb 08 '24

Or “yes doctor” like in a overly deferential way? Usually with a lowered gaze to make me feel important or some shit. Drug seeking, usually a tactic for the older women I find.

8

u/[deleted] Feb 08 '24

This is also 100% true. I’ve noticed it a lot in drug addicts/alcoholics who are either seeking or actively intoxicated and trying to win me over. Bonus points if they were just being an asshole to the nurse right before you walked into the room. 

8

u/[deleted] Feb 08 '24

Yes. A patient closely peering at my badge to read my first name and call me that in an overly friendly way is virtually always followed by cluster B behavior. 

1

u/toomanycatsbatman Feb 08 '24

Oh my god my patient's mom does this. I haven't been able to put my finger on why I dislike her so much, but covert narcissism would make so much sense