You're the type of patient we train students to handle with care, Karen. Most people aren't seasoned blood givers or even know what questions to ask when faced with something new, so we should explain everything they're doing and use diversional tactics.

I'm glad you have those conversations with the pharmacist. With new laws here in Quebec, they have more power but also more responsibility to educate the public on their meds.

As for students, they should be shadowed by a nurse or teacher, and we all go by the rule that you attempt something twice and then ask someone else to do it if unsuccessful. Even more expert nurses sometimes fail.

I think you're a great patient, Karen and representative of the majority. Although we may have taken blood or done dressings or IVs hundreds of times before, these procedures are new concepts to others and warrant explanation and patience on the nurses' part!

Thanks so much for participating - and taking your clan ;). Much appreciated. I've been AWOL here and it's time to fix that :)