what to say to someone waiting for medical results

what to say to someone waiting for medical results

Whats The Difference Between Dutch And French Braids? Its bad enough that it took forever to schedule an appointment that started an hour late, but now all you can do is go home and stare at your phone, waiting for it to ring. Whoever said there's no way to make time stand still clearly never had to endure the excruciating wait for scan results. A cortisol blood test is one of the most commonly used blood tests. Before visiting, giving advice, and asking questions, ask if it is welcome. We have strong faith in you. Pray for the physicians, laboratory technicians, nurses, and health care providers that will be involved. And make my doctors humble enough to follow through with these suggestions. It's bad enough that it took forever to schedule an appointment that started an hour late, but now all you can do is go home and stare at your phone, waiting for it to ring. Sympathy is a turn off for me; I'm not dead, just scared! Chronic conditions that are well managed shouldn't require many appointments, either. Pray for peace so that the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard both your heart and mind. Dear Father, though this is a routine check I must have, there is always a possibility that a serious medical condition may be discovered. 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. Cut out caffeine as it overstimulates the nervous system and can increase panic, nutritionist Rosie Mansfield says. If you're struggling to find the right words, here are 12 kind things to say to someone with cancer: 1. But think about ways you might cope to help yourself achieve some degree of comfort and peace of mind while you're waiting. Gracious Lord, may no fluid be found in my body or anything out of place so that I will not need any medication. Follow-up labs can tell you whether your strategies are working. I pray that you help me never to have any reason to undergo anyone again. Although you might be wondering, try not to ask, How are you doing? as it can bring up an unwanted reminder, Pandapas said. Thank you also because I trust you will strengthen me to receive the results. But please dont beat yourself up over what is not under your control. review your medical insurance and other financial resources. I receive grace to remain steadfast and patient as I expect the test results in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. You should also encourage them to take as many needed breaths as possible. Just wanted to send my love, along with my wishes for a speedy recovery. Many people in a situation like yours would have that reaction. Even if the news is "good," it may be important for the healthcare provider to explain what the results do and don't mean. I pray that the medical test results I expect will bring tears of joy down my cheeks. B | Nancy Irwin, a therapist and clinical hypnotist, has six suggestions for people who are waiting for test results to come back. Can I use the Nike Run Club app for walking? Quotations About Waiting For Someone. Most insurers don't want to pay for unnecessary appointments. It is only natural to worry. Ways to Stay Calm. All times AEDT (GMT +11). Sending you a note to let you know that I am thinking of you. Activities that are immersive and require your complete focus . Here are 13 words of encouragement for sick person who just got diagnosed with a terrible illness: 01 "I know you are worried about this diagnosis, but you've always been a fighter. Anxiety, as with these other emotions, can carry over into other areas of your life. What were they not telling me? Amen! You can also discuss side effects and dosage changes that may be needed. I underwent a PET scan last Thursday. During that . While it's true that emailing you results could violate HIPAA laws, practices can send electronic messages (or post results to a patient portal) if they have a secure means of doing so. They probably dont need armchair treatment recommendations based on your second cousins brothers experience.. Do Realize that all of our planning, cancer or no cancer, is based on the assumption that we're going to be around in the future. May nothing arise from the diagnosis that will give me, my doctors, and my family any concern. With chronic illness, follow-ups are often necessary to monitor the illness or see if a treatment is working. Whatever the tests outcome, we will pray it to God together. Do try to distract yourself Anxiety is a perfectly natural and valid response in this situation. Think about practical strategies to simplify your life. Lastly, I decree by faith that the enemys will shall never prevail over my life and health but the will of God. If any foreign material is discovered in the test results, remove them with your miraculous hands. If youre stuck in a hospital waiting room, it can be tempting to indulge in junk food from the vending machine, but a healthy diet can lower anxiety levels. The Cancer Council (cancervic.org.au) has a checklist of questions to ask when you get results, while NPS MedicineWise (nps.org.au) has a list of tests and medications detailing ingredients, possible side-effects and alternatives. In the Mighty Name of Jesus Christ, I pray, Amen. Sending you lots of feel-better hugs. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 2012-2023 On Secret Hunt - All Rights Reserved Thinking about you today and hoping its a good one for you. Mentally, I had prepared for the event of having the blood drawn, but it caught me off guard how quickly anxiety crept into my mind about the actual results of the test that we had to wait for. Fill out this form to share your experience. 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. Remember that your feelings are normal. Do you want to tell me about it? or Ive never been in your position, but Id love to try to understand what its like, Winawer suggested. That's true when you're first being diagnosed with something or managing a chronic illness. In fact, the helplessness that loved ones often experience can magnify your feelings even further. Read our. You're the bravest person I know, and you will get through this. Although each person with cancer is different, here are some general suggestions for showing support: Dont say I know how you feel because you cant possibly know. We like things to happen when we want it to happen and even how we want it to happen. Understand that being there for someone with a serious health issue is a balancing act, Pandapas said. 65. So you make the call and once again, youre waiting. Instead, you filled my heart with joy over the good doctors report I got after my diagnosis. they changed their minds and began to say that he was a god. And be thankful. And ask for a copy to keep in your files. Dont Stop planning for the future, including what youre going to have for dinner. I am here for you. Then follow through and really be there. Sometimes, after youve waited days or weeks for test results, you just cant wait any longer. Here's what they recommend. Ask them to name five things they can see, hear, smell or feel. 6. Get better and get back to your amazing self soon! Getting test results may prompt new questions, which you can ask at this appointment. Are you looking for Bible verses for good medical test results? Everyone is so different and a one caring response is not easy. Dont feel bad if you have to cancel plans at the last minute, I understand. Either way is okay, and dont press people who dont seem ready to talk about it. Amen! You can have many wishes for good medical results, but the best option remains to seek Gods help in anxious times through prayers. 15 Effective Prayers for Guilty Conscience. Here's what they had to say: 1. J | A lover of hip hop music, hot sauce and kimchi, she lives in Maryland with her husband, two dogs, cat and feisty 2-year-old daughter. The anxiety of not knowing can be all-consuming. In the Mighty Name of Jesus Christ, Amen. Thinking about you and hoping that you are having a good day. "There is actually something happening while nothing is happening. My husband was very adept at helping my friends navigate my ego.. Summary. While most people will be relieved to talk about it, others may not be as willing to open up, Winawer noted. So your main task during this waiting period is to manage your anxiety. Tell your story to us, no matter how big or small. What do you say to someone awaiting cancer results? It can help to learn about the condition you might be facingbut don't rush that processyou will be ready to know more when the time is right for you. 2) Schedule Worry Time. If this is something you or a loved one is experiencing, consider praying this short prayer adapted from Our Catholic Prayers, for the grace to trust God no matter the outcome: Articles like these are sponsored free for every Catholic through the support of generous readers just like you. One of the best things you can say is, Just tell me if you want me to leave or stop askingyou cant offend me! Winawer suggested. Home | About | Contact | Copyright | Privacy | Cookie Policy | Terms & Conditions | Sitemap. 10 Ways to Reduce Anxiety While Waiting for Imaging Test Results 1. As access to testing has increased and roughly 750,000 Americans per day line up for a Covid-19 test, wait times for results have climbed up to two weeks in many places and more people than ever may be experiencing test result anxiety, experts say.. 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. Do healthcare providers call you if test results show bad news? Privacy T | I hate it when my favorite people get hurt. Lord, cancel whatsoever evil that may be discovered in my health that made my doctor recommend this test. Waiting for test results. Lord, I ask for your guidance as I receive my MRI results today. If youre facing a possible life-changing diagnosis, the waiting can be especially stressful. When you're waiting for medical test results or a potential diagnosis for yourself or your baby, time seems to come to a grinding halt. If results are normal, they can usually be delivered via a phone call, letter, or secure message. I hope you recover as quickly as . You may feel impatient with your spouse or friends. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. None of the above scenarios are funny, but sometimes our community finds the humor in it all. We asked the CaringBridge community, many of whom have experienced this exact situation, their thoughts on what to say during these hard times. 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?" Loving God, thank you for helping me undergo the challenging procedure. Waiting for test results related to your cancer, chronic illness or other condition can be nerve-wracking (to say the least). We have found when we call patients about lab results, they give us better patient satisfaction scores. 2010;132:531-42. Dont tell the person it will be okay because in reality no one really knows if it will or not, Sanders said. Y | In fact, it may be the hardest thing youll ever have to face. If faced with bad news, I decided to create a to-feel list rather than a to-do list, Ashwood says. And you might have to deal with symptomssuch as dizziness, nausea, or painwhile you're waiting for an answer. The shortest waits for specialist consultations are in Quebec (7.2 weeks) while the According to Jocelyn Charles, Chief of Family and Community Medicine at Sunnybrook, a physician who orders a test for blood, ultrasound, X-rays or CT scans is responsible for responding to abnormal results and communicating these results to the patient. June 14, 2022; pros and cons of stem cell therapy for knees . You need someone to listen to you and remind you of their love and presence in your life. Don't wait. James 1:5 NIV If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. Higher levels of cortisol would indicate higher levels of stress. Delaney KP, Hanson DL, Masciotra S, Ethridge SF, Wesolowski L, Owen SM. Part of HuffPost Wellness. This is not a time for seated meditation on the nature of your breath. Posted on May 28, 2021 by May 28, 2021 by It allows us to deal with situations out of our control with more grace and less stress, which is good for our mental health as well as our physical health. For some people, talking with friends, family, a clergy person, and/or a counselor can help in dealing with these feelings while waiting for a diagnosis. Say Get Well in a way that's personal and sincere. When we're more aware of what's going on around us and inside us, it also helps us notice signs of stress and anxiety and helps us deal with them better. Re-establish your sense of power. You may feel shocked, scared, concerned or uncertain on behalf of your loved one, said Anne Moyer, an associate professor of psychology at Stony Brook University. In the morning, as soon as . Foods that are rich in vitamin B, such as avocados and almonds, are known to help reduce stress, while depression has been linked to low levels of folic acid, so introduce veg such as asparagus and broccoli as well as citrus fruits into your diet. Because I have a life to live, and I need to live it in the best way possible. , I wish I knew what to say, but I care and Im here for you. Offer to chauffeur or even attend appointments. Want to see fewer ads on Aleteia? They can also leave a voicemail message requesting you return the call.. Say something like: Its hard for me to even imagine how youre feeling. Frustration and Other Common Feelings While Waiting for a Diagnosis. If this is something you or a loved one is experiencing, consider . Your email address will not be published. Uncategorized what to say to someone waiting for medical results. True love is bound to reveal itself sooner or later.". Winawer suggested. American Psychological Association. That's because your health is at risk in some way. A note to remind you that I love youand I hate that you're sick. Don't ask what you can do to help or say, "Let me know if you need anything." nag your doctor. Wishing you all the best for your upcoming exams. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Here's what you can say right before the patient is wheeled off to surgery. In addition, may my blood count come out normal or be in a range with a straightforward course of action. It appears you entered an invalid email. So do something for . You probably don't need one for preventive tests or if your condition is well controlled. St Leonards NSW All rights reserved. You may feel fed up with the entire process of diagnosis and feel like just walking away from the whole thing. Trisha Torrey is a patient empowerment and advocacy consultant. You can also encourage your friend with comforting words like: I will be right here for you, regardless of what the test results reveal. Fill my heart with your peace that surpasses all understanding. If youve ever been sent home from the doctors clinic with the words Well have your results in a week, youll know the next seven days can feel like an eternity. In order for this feeling to go away, it needs the neurotransmitter GABA to essentially "hush" these excited neurons. So make a 10-minute appointment with yourself and let yourself worry away. "Things will be better after your surgery." what to say to someone waiting for medical results. Check her story out in the book, A Letter to My Mom.. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. You finally received a call but thats just to tell you to come back to the hospital. Also cut out alcohol as it can not only cause mood swings, but can also prevent you from starting immediate treatment if needed.. Nor do they want your overly optimistic, if well-intentioned, prognosis, stressed Rachel Soper Sanders, who suffers from chronic pain after a serious car accident. . Lord, I ask that you take absolute control as I undergo a crucial medical test today. Offer to spend time with them and keep them busy. Ask your healthcare provider about how test results will be delivered. 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. I | Think about the way youve coped with stressful situations in the past whether its baking, meditation or breathing exercises and apply these techniques to your current medical predicament. P | On the other hand, do you have "toxic friends" who you may need to bid goodbye. Don't Stop planning for the future, including what you're going to have for dinner. Father God, I come before you asking for good results for the urinalysis I had undergone. When theres a chance you may have a serious illness, the delay between testing and diagnosis can be torturous. Trisha Torrey is a patient empowerment and advocacy consultant. 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. How do you stay calm when waiting for medical results? American Associated of Retired Persons: AARP. Most importantly, I ask that you assist me in relying on you during this stressful time. V | Jeremiah 29:11 NIV For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Ask what kind of friend the person needs you to be. If results are shared by phone, email, or online, how does the office ensure they will only be shared with me or my designees? Worrying is part of our survival mechanism, clinical hypnotherapist Dr Tracie OKeefe says. So, instead of allowing anxiety to get the best of you, you should channel your energy into praying for good results when you are awaiting a test outcome. Here are ways to pray for a medical miracle: You obviously cant tell a friend waiting for an important medical test result, You will be fine, because you both know you cant guarantee that. What do you say to a friend who has cancer? Getting surgery is hard, but I'm sure it will improve your quality of life in the long run. Instead, use the web to get better informed. So, I can assure you that as you make the above prayers for good medical test results, the Lord will give you nothing but a favorable outcome and peace to wait patiently without any anxiety for a doctors report. If you decide to use the healthcare provider, be sure to review the Terms of Agreement included in any intake documents you sign. 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. "Never rush in love for it never runs out. November 30, 2011. If this includes you, then you may enjoy some of the memes about waiting for test results weve gathered below. The irony is, I just wrote a post on how to help an anxious child at the doctor's office . I miss having you around. Nationwide News Pty Ltd 2023. Anju Goel, MD, MPH, is a board-certified physician who specializes in public health, communicable disease, diabetes, and health policy. When first meeting with a new healthcare provider, ask about their test result policies. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved. R | Many health conditions are invisible on the outside, so commenting on someones appearance can feel dismissive or hurtful. May this good news be so amazing that it will be like music to my ears. G | You may feel hopeless about your situation. I am grateful that you allowed me to lean on you when I was most vulnerable and anxious. 10 Things to say to someone with a chronic illness. I wish I knew exactly what to say, but I dont. "So when they get the results they can say, 'I knew that.' Or they feel extremely relieved." The four-alarm worriers may also hold tight to magical thinking: If they can stare, unblinking, into. Remember that your feelings are normal Waiting for imaging test results can be a significant and stressful experience. Anything you can do to provide some fun and normalcy will ease stress for the whole family., Also, you can navigate around the ask by asking the persons spouse how you may be able to help. Psalm 56:3-4 NIV When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. It's FREE! It is part of the fight or flight reaction designed to protect us from danger. Exercise to Ease Restlessness in Your Brain. Many people may feel angry at times while waiting for an answer. Give them an idea of what to do after the results are out. What do you say to someone who is nervous about surgery? It's also an opportunity to discuss starting treatment. Do all test results require a follow-up appointment? Nurses often say that they've witnessed many patients and families yelling at medical staffand at each other. She faced 33 rounds of radiotherapy and decided to wear a different dress to each one, then documented it on a blog (33dresses.com). Hope you feel all the love surrounding you right now. Above all, please guide my doctors while they look over my test results and give them the insight they need to interpret them correctly. M | "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. You held me close throughout the period of waiting for my test results. You have to read the situation and the person. Q | H | Father God, I come before you asking for good results for the urinalysis I had undergone. "Waiting is not the problem, worry is," said Paula H. Finestone, PhD, a clinical psychologist at Fox Chase Cancer Center. Remove all your fears and have faith . 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. The longer you have to wait, the more you may have ups and downs, and the more intense your feelings may become. Thank you for your strength, love, and peace. God Works While We Wait Something actually happens while nothing is happening. "'He's the same little boy you've loved . Read these words of support, which are inspirational words for so many. 2. Silence is crushing.. Telehealth appointments may be a good compromise between delivering results in person versus a phone call, letter, or secure message. How do you comfort someone waiting for their results? . Holiday or anytime gift ideas for a cancer patient. This sudden transformation is so difficult to process, on both sides.. A note to remind you that I love youand I hate that youre sick. May all the glory be ascribed unto your holy name. Loving Father, you know how anxious I get about doctors offices, hospitals, needles, and medical equipment. When a friend or loved one is facing a serious health scare, one of the best ways to be truly supportive is to eliminate the burden of making the ask, he said. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. When the test results finally emerge, may they calm my nerves with overwhelming good news. Some people look for more information about cancer during this time. ~ Isaiah 26:3. Words Of Encouragement For Exams - Myilibrary.org. We are all keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. How long can you be chased for a council tax debt? Often, routine blood or imaging tests are part of preventive care. But now youre at work, and its still difficult to be productive when the results are looming in the back of your head. 2. A simple I will keep thinking of you, or I wish you much love and strength or Im sending you a big hug is a perfect way to end your note. As with impatience, frustration with your medical issue can carry over to other parts of your life. Ask God for the courage to go through the rigorous procedures involved with medical tests. 3. Australia 1590, 0-9 | Do you need to hire a part-time nanny to help with the kids? Scanxiety . What do you write in a get well card for someone with cancer? You know, the good kind of stranger. U | During the seminar, Freiberg said "that many people who are prescribed the medication . Have you still no faith?. Abba Father, peradventure, it turns out unfavorable; I ask that you take me toward the path of healing. Focus on positives Sometimes the angry feelings can be channeled into something productive, like advocating for yourself or a loved one. 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. 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. Clin Infect Dis. Yet when the danger we are considering comes from our thoughts, rather than an acute and readily apparent danger in our midst (such as a lion attacking) the reaction can lead to further anxiety and stress, causing physical responses such as increased heart rate, rapid breathing, and more. So, I ask that you strengthen me for whatever will emerge from it because I know that whatever it is, you will handle it. 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. What do you say when someone gets a bad diagnosis? Stick around in the long run, and try to send a text every so often or another way to show you care, like a gift certificate for a massage or manicure.

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what to say to someone waiting for medical results

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