Indexing Title: JMDEGUZMAN’s Medical Anecdotal Report [04-2]

 MAR Title: Bringing back the smiles.

 Date of Medical Observation: May 2004

 Narration:

            A relative of a patient came to me yesterday with a smile and gratitude asking for a prescription of morphine.

            Our patient is Maria (not her real name), who was seen at our hospital last month. She was diagnosed with Breast Cancer, Left; Stage IV. Previously, Maria was seen at Hospital X and was advised that her condition is at terminal stage and nothing can be done. She went home in pain emotionally, spiritually and physically. She fell in depression. Her relatives were also disturbed; patient always complained that she can not sleep properly because of severe pain on her left breast extending to the arm. The pain reliever given was not enough to ease the pain. She was then brought to our institution. Fully aware of her condition, all she wants is to put the pain away. I then enrolled her to our cancer pain management program. Two days after I can see smiles not only to the relatives but most importantly to the patient. Maria was eventually discharged accepting her fate.

Insights (Discovery, Stimulus, Reinforcements)

            Pain is the most common complaint of a patient seeking medical attention. Next to death pain is the worst fear of a patient. Some would rather wish death than go through all the pain. By alleviating the pain experienced physically, physicians have the opportunity to gain good rapport and explain fully the condition of the patient. This promotes better understanding on the part of the patient.

            As reported by DOH, Cancer Pain Control Study Group, still many patients with cancer pain are not being given the appropriate treatment, and hence suffer unnecessarily. Fortunately, at our hospital we have started establishing a structured cancer pain control program and I am happy to be part of it.