It is a little know fact that physicians fail to recognize the signs that they should retire or at least get out of acute care medicine. They cling onto their jobs like leeches. Blame it on an identity crisis. Can you live without the "doctor" title? Some feel that one else can do their job (in the exact manner that they do). Regardless, it is dangerous occupation hazard. See if you can recognize the signs in this real life phone conversation:
"Hello, is this Dr. A?"
"Yes, this is Dr. A. Hello Dr. B."
"I have this patient here in the emerg who came in because she thought she was pregnant?"
"Yes, I see."
"Her last period was 4 weeks ago and she started having some bleeding today. She was worried and came into the emerg."
"What did her pregnant test show?"
"Oh, her serum bHCG (blood test for pregnancy) was negative."
"And how often does she have her periods?"
"About once a month and she has regular periods."
"I see...four weeks ago, eh?"
.....LONG PAUSE
"So Dr. A, what should I do?
"Don't you think she might be starting her period?
......MORE SILENCE
"Good night Dr. A."
"Good night Dr. B."
