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Respect the confidence and privacy of the sick person. Do not discuss
someone’s health problems outside the clinic or classroom. This is especially
important in a small village where gossip is a main form of entertainment.
If someone asks you, “What is wrong with Maria?” consider answering, “I’m
sorry, I can’t discuss a person’s private problems except with members of the
immediate family.” This way, people will learn that they can trust you. They will
then be willing to see you about problems they do not want others to know
about.
Be honest with the sick person and his family—but also be kind. Sometimes
when a person is very ill or dying, or has a frightening disease like leprosy or cancer,
you may not be sure whether to tell him and his family the truth. But often both the
sick person and his family already suspect the worst, and suffer because they try to
hide their fears from each other. Each situation needs to be approached individually.
But as a general rule, it is wise to be as truthful as possible. . . but in a way that is
gentle and kind.
Help the sick person gain a better understanding of his illness. Explain the
physical examination, diagnosis, causes of the illness, treatment, and prevention in
clear, simple terms. Use your books or show pictures to help explain things. Help
people take informed responsibility for their problems. Never use your knowledge
of healing as a form of power over other people.
Use medicines only when needed, and help people understand why it is
important to limit their use. In about 80% of illnesses, a person will get well
without medical treatment.
On the average, a clinic should aim at giving medicines to only about half of the
persons who come for treatment. But make every effort to see that those who
go away without medicine are content with the advice or treatment given. One of
the most important aspects of health education is to help people realize that it is
healthier, safer, and cheaper to manage many
illnesses without medicines. (See Ch. 18.)
Recognize your limits, and admit when
you don’t know something. No matter at
what level a health worker is trained, there will
be certain illnesses or problems she cannot
diagnose or treat. This may be because the
problem is not treatable, or because she lacks
the skill, knowledge, medicine, or equipment
to treat it. In any case, it is important that the
health worker admit her limitations. When
necessary, she should refer the sick
person to where he is more likely to
receive the attention he needs.
Also, when you have doubts or are unsure
of how to do something, do not pretend
to know. Admit your doubts and ask for
assistance. This is as important for instructors
as for students.
KNOW YOUR LIMITS