Tip #6 Never Do This

Never Assume You Understand

Continuing the Series - Hospital Visit Tips, Never Do This…

6. Never Assume that You Understand

Maybe you had an aunt who had cancer or even your own cancer journey. 

That does not mean that you completely understand what obstacles face every other person with cancer. 

Even more painfully, just because your dad died doesn’t mean that you fully understand when her dad dies.

We can most certainly use our experiences to help us in lending support and compassionate care. But be cautious to put yourself in the role of expert due to your personal experiences.

Never say, “I know how you feel.” 

Simply put, you don’t. 

Just as no one can understand your personal grief or fear completely, you cannot understand theirs. 

Instead, you could say, “If I were you, I might feel scared.” That communicates that you are trying to put yourself in their shoes. 

If you are visiting with a patient and they share a concern or frustration, you might be able to reflect back to them. "You said that you feel like the doctor is not listening. Is there a nurse or advocate you could share those feelings with?" 

By doing this we can help the patient take back their own voice and therefore enable them to advocate for and express themselves.

Never assume that you understand.