what to say to someone waiting for medical results what to say to someone waiting for medical results

By Trisha Torrey Or they may be more nuanced or open to interpretation. What should you not say to a cancer patient? God uses waiting to change us. Any sort of health crisis signals a huge change in your life, and its frightening, said Melodie Winawer, a neurologist and neuroscientist at Columbia University. During the seminar, Freiberg said "that many people who are prescribed the medication . Christina Pandapas, who was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer at age 46, agreed that simple gestures often go a long way. Anju Goel, MD, MPH, is a board-certified physician who specializes in public health, communicable disease, diabetes, and health policy. Show the doctors what they need to see on my x-ray. Everyone will deal with their illness or condition differently. And make my doctors humble enough to follow through with these suggestions. Worrying is part of our survival mechanism, clinical hypnotherapist Dr Tracie OKeefe says. Psalm 56:3-4 NIV When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. Sometimes, it's appropriate to deliver lab results at a face-to-face appointment. American Associated of Retired Persons: AARP. May all the glory be ascribed unto your holy name. Synonyms of waiting waiting 1 of 2 noun Definition of waiting as in delay Synonyms & Similar Words Relevance delay hesitation procrastination indecision pause hawing faltering wavering wobbling second thought doubt uncertainty vacillation hesitancy wabbling consideration irresolution hesitance fence-sitting indecisiveness incertitude deliberation Remember that your feelings are normal Waiting for imaging test results can be a significant and stressful experience. Prayers for Awaiting Urine Test Results. People with serious health issues on their minds may feel unable to make simple decisions, even decisions as simple as what outfit to wear. Don't wait. If youre facing a possible life-changing diagnosis, the waiting can be especially stressful. We often say, "call me if you need anything," but in reality, few will ever call to ask for that help. You can also discuss side effects and dosage changes that may be needed. Do Realize that all of our planning, cancer or no cancer, is based on the assumption that were going to be around in the future. It is early days still and I presume that you have not had any results from your MRI, Ultrasound and biopsies yet. They can also leave a voicemail message requesting you return the call.. , I wish I knew what to say, but I care and Im here for you. Thinking about you and hoping that you are having a good day. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. >>How hashtagging can improve your health. We like things to happen when we want it to happen and even how we want it to happen. American Psychological Association. Gracious Lord, may no fluid be found in my body or anything out of place so that I will not need any medication. Matthew 15:22-29 tells us healing is the childrens bread. Sometimes the uncertainty leaves you seemingly without an anchor. Outside of this, the worries are a problem for future you not present you. Tell your story to us, no matter how big or small. Here are three things you may want to say but should skip: If you want to help but dont know where to start, here are some suggestions on how to support someone with a serious illness. I pray that the medical test results I expect will bring tears of joy down my cheeks. Scanxiety . what to say to someone waiting for medical results. We asked the CaringBridge community, many of whom have experienced this exact situation, their thoughts on what to say during these hard times. Frustration refers to the feeling of having your purpose or action blocked. . Thank you for being with me during my biopsy. Answer (1 of 6): I had breast cancer 8-years ago and I remember that wait. Mary Kugler, RN, is a pediatric nurse whose specialty is caring for children with long-term or severe medical problems. Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Don't Stop planning for the future, including what you're going to have for dinner. Also, try to be comfortable with silence: Don't try to fill blank space with chatter about yourself, she said. .css-tadcwa:hover{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}Sophia Swinford - @media screen and (max-width: 767px){.css-1xovt06 .date-separator{display:none;}.css-1xovt06 .date-updated{display:block;width:100%;}}published on 07/02/18. Basically, waiting is not fun. However, if you are not sure of the diagnosis, some information can be confusing and upsetting. Breast cancer survivor Elissa Ashwood coped with her diagnosis by breaking it down into chapters. Want your test results? Amen. I need strength as I head to the hospital today. Specifically, blood tests can help doctors: Evaluate how well organssuch as the kidneys, liver, thyroid, and heartare working. M | Amen Lord, Jehovah, God of Healing, we come to you today, to lift up a dear one who needs You. Also, stay with me as I await the results, which I do not doubt will be good ones. A note to remind you that I love youand I hate that you're sick. It was as if the movie of my life had been kicked out of freeze frame and I was back in the flow. Lastly, Father, strengthen me as I wait and grant me faith to hope for the best. Father I thank you for your mercy and your grace upon my life and my family, be thou magnified, in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Say Get Well in a way that's personal and sincere. May the sound waves produce the needed images and make them perfectly clear. Heres how it can feel to be at home, waiting for the phone call. You held me close throughout the period of waiting for my test results. Sitting in silence may just be what the other person needs. News of a new diagnosis should usually be given face-to-face. They're an easy way to view detailed test results as soon as theyre available. Amy Molloy reveals how to stay positive when hoping that everything is OK. Marley Hall is a writer and fact checker who is certified in clinical and translational research. Remove all your fears and have faith . I heard you're doing well after surgery. What did they see? Lord, cancel whatsoever evil that may be discovered in my health that made my doctor recommend this test. All it really means, though, is that the test didn't detect the virus. Some people find it helpful to connect with a support group (or an online community, especially with rare diseases) which offers the opportunity for you to talk with others who have experienced the same situation that you are going through. Family Practice. Psalm 56:3 NIV When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. Help them to get comfortable (have them sit or lie down). Better to ask, Do you want to talk about how you feel, how having cancer is affecting you? Dont offer information about unproven treatments or referrals to doctors with questionable credentials. In the victorious name of Jesus, I pray, Amen. You may feel frustrated if there are mix-ups with your insurance or with test results that come back inconclusive. Many people may feel angry at times while waiting for an answer. If faced with bad news, I decided to create a to-feel list rather than a to-do list, Ashwood says. Father God, I ask that you remove this anxious feeling as I wait for my test results. J | Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls; for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. You should pray miracle prayers for healing for a divine intervention concerning whatever the doctors have discovered through your tests. Getting results can be overwhelming so take notes or use your phones voice memo function to record the information provided by the doctor and avoid confusion later. This article will look at when it's needed, when it's not, and how to set expectations with your healthcare provider. You have to read the situation and the person. It depends on your age, health, and the type and stage of your cancer. Stress and anxiety may also prevent you from focusing on routine activities such as cooking, studying, and reading. You may feel fed up with the entire process of diagnosis and feel like just walking away from the whole thing. Help us continue to bring the Gospel to people everywhere through uplifting and transformative Catholic news, stories, spirituality, and more. I know there are so many people who need their attention. X | Why You May Need a Healthcare Provider's Appointment to Get Your Lab Results. "'He's the same little boy you've loved . During that . Ask them to name five things they can see, hear, smell or feel. Your exams are nearing, so study with dedication and you will succeed in your exams. Home | About | Contact | Copyright | Privacy | Cookie Policy | Terms & Conditions | Sitemap. What to Say to Someone With Cancer. Read and meditate on these Scriptures while waiting for test results and watch God fill your heart with peace instead of the usual anxious thoughts following a medical test. Pray for grace to handle the outcome with faith and strength, regardless of what it will be. Ask God for divine financial provision so that you can take care of the costs of all the recommended tests. Merciful God, I pray that each image will successfully show my insides just as you created them. 64. The problem is heightened levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can impair your immune system, so when faced with a health scare its more important than ever to keep calm and carry on. Think about practical strategies to simplify your life. But, on the bright side, here are some of the lovely things I've heard in the past few weeks, all of which would be AWESOME things to say to someone who is anxiously waiting for test results: "YOU WILL BE FINE." "Call me if you need ANYTHING." "I think we need to fill up that empty wine glass of yours stat!" "Can I do anything for you?" If you're taking medications for chronic conditions, regular in-person appointments can help you stick to the treatment regimen. Your email address will not be published. Waiting Quotes Quotes tagged as "waiting" Showing 1-30 of 787 "If pain must come, may it come quickly. They can do so as long they verify it's you. 2023 MJH Life Sciences and CURE - Oncology & Cancer News for Patients & Caregivers. ~ Isaiah 26:3. Check out the dos and donts below: No matter what, it is better to say something than nothing, said Ron Blake, a sexual assault survivor who has experienced post-traumatic stress disorder. I ask that you give my doctors what they need to know through my blood sample. H | Second, mistakes happen. Be wary of any office that says they only contact you "if there is a problem." If the office says they can't deliver results by phone because it violates HIPAA privacy laws, they're wrong. What do you say when someone is ill? Reneging on a promise to the big I am is bad karma. A | Whoever said there's no way to make time stand still clearly never had to endure the excruciating wait for scan results. In the Mighty Name of Jesus Christ, Amen. P | Lastly, Alison and Brian urge you: dont over-promise! In the morning, as soon as . nag your doctor, Test result communication in primary care: clinical and office staff perspectives, To track the progression of a chronic illness, To check for a recurrence of a treated condition. Do all test results require a follow-up appointment? By entering your email and clicking Sign Up, you're agreeing to let us send you customized marketing messages about us and our advertising partners. We have found when we call patients about lab results, they give us better patient satisfaction scores. Test result communication in primary care: clinical and office staff perspectives. | "You are a bright and shining light in the world! I also request that you guide my radiologist to make wise and knowledgeable suggestions to my doctors afterward. We have strong faith in you. Also, imbue the medical personnel who are conducting his tests with the wisdom that comes from you. 6. Gracious God, I will not fail to ask for your abiding presence. May this good news be so amazing that it will be like music to my ears. Sometimes the uncertainty leaves you seemingly without an anchor. All rights reserved. "It is the opposite of fixating on yourself, for you have done everything you can and now it is time to release. See if there's anything that can be done to help control your symptoms, even if the interventions are only temporary until you find out what treatments you will need for the long term. Re-establish your sense of power. A pat on the back, 'thinking of you', grin of support. Please show the doctors what they need to see and give them the ability to fix my bones in the proper position so that I will be relieved of this pain. A third reason why waiting is hard is because as people we dont like to wait. Most of all, I ask that you give me the grace to always maintain a healthy lifestyle and good food diet from now on so that I will always be well nourished. Meeting in-person to go over results helps you both see what's happening and figure out why. And so now I wait for the results. It is only natural to worry. Make a follow-up appointment beforehand if the results might be something you need to discuss. Her work has been published in medical journals in the field of surgery, and she has received numerous awards for publication in education. Q | She faced 33 rounds of radiotherapy and decided to wear a different dress to each one, then documented it on a blog (33dresses.com). Engage in Relaxing and Joyful Activities Feelings of stress and anxiety while waiting for the test results can make you become restless and fidget with objects around you. Having the medical system constantly making you wait for thingsappointments, tests, consultations, resultscan make you feel like throwing in the towel and just giving up. Heavenly Father, I pray for my dear friend awaiting his test results. Healthcare providers sometimes ask you to make an appointment to get the results of routine medical tests. what to say to someone waiting for medical results If you feel yourself getting anxious or impatient, take a few slow, deep breaths to stay calm. Plus, if a disease is contagious, your provider will want to talk in person about how to help you avoid future risk and protect other people. Sending you lots of feel-better hugs. Matthew 11:28-30 NIV Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Pandapas said her friends continued to show their support throughout her recovery, which was very meaningful to her. It can divinely turn around the outcome of any medical test when waiting for the result. Even before the pandemic, plenty of studies have found that waiting for medical test results can cause . Privacy Everlasting God, I surrender my anxiety to you and ask that you overwhelm me with your love. What were they not telling me? God Works While We Wait Something actually happens while nothing is happening. Everything Is Not OK: A TV Show Gave Me Flashbacks to Cancer, Radiation Dose May Increase Risk of Colorectal Cancer in Hodgkin Lymphoma Survivors, TKI Drug Plus Chemotherapy May Improve Lung Cancer Outcomes. You need someone to listen to you and remind you of their love and presence in your life. Australia 1590, 0-9 | Copyright Aleteia SAS all rights reserved. Find out more about our policy and your choices, including how to opt-out. All you want to know is what that irregular-shaped mole on your face really is, or why you have bouts of shortness of breath, or, worse, if your cancer is back. My husband was very adept at helping my friends navigate my ego.. Check out the links below. "I'm praying for you, your medical team, and your family." If you are a praying person, consider lifting the doctors, nurses, and hospital staff up in your prayers. Can stress affect your blood test results? 2). Sitting back down to lunch with my wife, who, as a result of my taking the call outside so as to not cause a scene in the restaurant, should one be necessary, was in a state of panic, we ate as if it were our last, and first, meal. Were looking to feature moments in which someone interrupted their busy life to lend a hand to someone they didnt know. What do you need right nowand what dont you need? . Tell your story to us, no matter how big or small. . A 14bn plan to reduce NHS backlogs caused by Covid is failing to meet targets, with cancer waiting times at their worst-ever levels, parliament's spending watchdog . The phone rings and you pick up. This is not a time for seated meditation on the nature of your breath. Even with potentially serious chronic conditions, like HIV or diabetes, once your condition is under control, you may only need to see a healthcare provider once a year. They had an uncanny sense of timing. But I can honestly say I feel God's peace now. Getting a diagnosis can involve waiting to see a specialist, waiting for a test to be scheduled, or waiting for lab results to come back. Oops! At an appointment, your healthcare provider can explain options and tell you whether more testing is needed. If something is ever discovered, I pray it is a simple thing to treat. The longer you have to wait, the more you may have ups and downs, and the more intense your feelings may become. How do you comfort someone waiting for their results? Ultimately, your greatest weapon against waiting-time anxiety is distraction. You are in my thoughts and prayers every day. With chronic illness, follow-ups are often necessary to monitor the illness or see if a treatment is working. You are also agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. Do try to distract yourself Anxiety is a perfectly natural and valid response in this situation. If you are asking, How do you pray for medical healing?. D | Getting a diagnosis can involve waiting to see a specialist, waiting for a test to be scheduled, or waiting for lab results to come back. We did manage a toast to health, and once again cursed the evil bastards who, in my cynical mind, think nothing of taunting those of us challenged by cancer with our very survivorship. As much as they would like to voice their admiration and love for someone, theyll go an extra mile to suppress those very emotions. Diagnose diseases and conditions such as cancer, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, anemia (uh-NEE-me-eh), and coronary heart disease. Remember, its harder for bad news to hit a moving target. Stress effects on the body: Nervous system. If, by chance, any news surfaces from the test, I am awaiting their results. Depending on the type of test, it could be a few hours to a few weeks before the results are ready. If this is something you or a loved one is experiencing, consider . Waiting for an appointment, a procedure, or a consultation may give you the feeling of hurry up and wait.. However, we sometimes blow fears out of proportion, so its important to put worries back into perspective. She recommends this visualisation technique: Picture the worst-case scenario as if youre watching it on a movie screen, then shrink the picture until its tiny. What do you say when someone gets a bad diagnosis? "Things will be better after your surgery." There, youll also find thoughts and questions by our community. Here's what they recommend. Your enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. An appointment gives you an opportunity to talk about: It can also help avoid confusion over what the results mean. Get better and get back to your amazing self soon! For example, if you have prediabetes or hypertension (high blood pressure), you may not need treatment right away. To check in with ourselves and notice what our thoughts are focused on and what tension we may be holding in our bodies. , Ask permission. Summary. Do you need to hire a part-time nanny to help with the kids? Heres how to pray for good medical test results: If you are ready to offer some powerful prayers for good medical test results, you are definitely in luck, as I have provided 17 powerful ones in this article. There are some things you can do while you wait: If you are living with chronic pain, make sure you discuss it with your healthcare providers. Time until emergence of HIV test reactivity following infection with HIV-1: Implications for interpreting test results and retesting after exposure. I was always doing just fine until someone asked me that question, then Id be holding back tears, she said. Lord Jesus, may the x-ray be clear and easy to read and understand. Even if it was offered in all sincerity, it can still feel weird to call someone and say, "remember when you offered to help?" Instead, offer precise ways that you can be of assistance. Say something like: Its hard for me to even imagine how youre feeling. Dont ask what you can do to help or say, Let me know if you need anything. Many people will never ask for help even though they need it. 7. And I'm here to assure all naysayers out there that not only did time stand still, but it even moved backward. If follow-up appointments are expected, check with your health insurance to make sure they're covered.