ABSTRACT
This article focuses on patients' feelings of anxiety and fear and the relationship of these feelings to stress. A model is described that identifies four steps in the perception of environmental stress and the emotional responses to it. A second model describes the stages of responses to stress. Both models are applied to the patient experience, and suggestions are offered for basic facilitative physical therapist behaviors. A strong request is made for physical therapists to observe the affective behavior of patients, perceive it in the context of stress, and respond effectively.
Subject(s)
Anxiety , Disabled Persons/psychology , Stress, Psychological , Female , Humans , Male , Models, Psychological , Physical Therapy ModalitiesABSTRACT
The individual who becomes a patient brings to the health care setting needs, values, and life style founded on highly individualistic personal history and experience. The process of health care and the manner in which it is negotiated is largely controlled by the health professional. Success or failure of treatment and ultimate progress of the patient may depend upon resolution of a fundamental conflict of values between patient and care-giver.
Subject(s)
Conflict, Psychological , Hospitalization , Professional-Patient Relations , Humans , Informed Consent , Sick Role , Social ValuesABSTRACT
The right of a patient to have information about his diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis within the framework of communication processes is discussed from the perspectives of the professional, the patient, and the interaction process. The traditional role of the patient is described with attention given to apparent changes in that role. These changes have implications for the health care practitioner who is a product of the authority structure of academic and clinical institutions steeped in traditional autonomous and unilateral decision making in the mystique of the medical arena.
