Discriminatory and Sexually Inappropriate Remarks from Patients and its Challenge to Professionalism

As a medical team enters the hospital room for bedside rounds, the patient points to the female attending physician and says, “I like the way you look – you’re very attractive.” The patient’s comment angers and offends the physician and in her surprise, she is not sure what to say or do next. She is anxious to respond professionally, but quickly realizes she is unsure how to address the comment without embarrassing the patient or undermining the treatment alliance.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *