Hundreds of patients drove up to the COVID-19 testing facility every single day. The rush hour lines, which stretched down several blocks, frequently inspired the Fire Marshall to threaten closing down the clinic for the day. The long wait left patients feeling angry, anxious, and fearful about their impending test. Despite the center moving as efficiently as possible, little could be done to accommodate the never-ending stream of people. This was not your average summer job...
Working at the clinic this summer, I witnessed firsthand the fear many patients experienced about receiving positive test results or the pain of the nasal swab. One man in particular worried that testing positive would make him lose his hourly construction job, alienate his elderly mother dependent on his care, and force him to isolate from his immunocompromised child. While he managed a brave face entering the testing clinic, the looming possibility of his results haunted him. As different patients’ personal struggles were not distinguishable by outer appearances, each interaction required patience and understanding.
Before I approached a patient, I kept in the back of my mind the Polyvagal Theory taught in the Compassionate Care in Medicine courses at Notre Dame. This theory by Stephen Porges emphasizes the importance of a physician’s non-verbals in affecting a patient’s feelings of trust and safety in a clinical setting. Keeping the patient comfortable is important for maintaining an open discussion and providing the best patient care. As these patients started at a place of fear or anxiety, I had to ensure that both my verbal and non-verbals communicated that I was a safe space. My compassionate mindset needed to be palpable. I greeted each patient with a warm smile, removed any physical barriers, and maintained eye contact. These small gestures, behind bulky Personal Protective Equipment, comforted people moving them to engage without fear. These patients were visibly calmer and more open to asking questions about the testing process than others. I directly saw the positive impact of approaching patients with a compassionate mindset in a clinical setting.
While it is fascinating to read and discuss the Polyvagal Theory in a classroom setting, nothing solidifies its validity until seen in practice. This lesson is something that I hope to bring to my own patients one day after completing my medical training. Good patient communication and non-verbals are not just bedside manner but are important for delivering better patient interactions and outcomes.
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Olivia Venvertloh '21 worked at a COVID testing facility this summer.