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I see an average of 10 dog-bite cases everyday at the ER.
All bites to the extremities are managed by the Orthopedic Department.
On the first day, I have been forewarned by my residents that my breakfast,lunch and dinner at the ER will be a regular plate of dog-bite cases. They were not wrong. It ticks me off sometimes but I try to be patient because I was once one of them, waiting to be consulted, getting my Anti-Rabies vaccination and Tetanus toxoid. I also consulted at the same hospital where I am now an intern.
I know how it feels because 3 years ago I was bitten by Scout, my puppy and he died 2 days after.
Today I lost my empathy on one patient. After days of being nice, my temper was tested and I was unstoppable.
He walked in with an air of unmistakable arrogance. Middle-aged and brusque, he was accompanied by i presume one of his minions. He reluctantly showed me the dog’s bite marks right below the buttocks, at the posterior thigh. I did the usual interview.While I was asking him questions he was texting all the time, just mumbling his answers.
Talk about rude.
I took a deep breath and continued writing a prescription for a Tetanus toxoid and a Tetanus Immunoglobulin. He waved it off saying he already had the toxoid shots 4 months ago but I told him he needs another shot of the toxoid minus the Immunoglobulin. He asked me how much it would cost and I told him that he should go to the Pharmacy and check because they are responsible for the pricing. He was annoyed and told me that he doesn’t like my tone.Duh, I was very civil, downright apathetic. He said he was a Barangay Captain and not some silly person. I looked up at him and answered “So?”.
He staged a walked out but I made him sign the Discharged Against Medical Advice form before he left. He refused further consultation.
I’m sorry I couldn’t find a red carpet to walk on enroute to the pharmacy for Mr. Brgy. Captain.
I’m sorry I couldn’t skip the usual interview.I was firing too many questions that are too highfaluting for his puny mind. Duh. I was only asking for a simple medical history.
All patients are equal; some think they should be more equal than others.
Hail to Mr. Brgy. Captain with dog bites on his ass.
