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Pets and Procedures

2022; Wolters Kluwer; Volume: 3; Issue: 1 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1097/as9.0000000000000143

2691-3593

David Fessell,

Infant Health and Development

INTRODUCTION With all that COVID and the events of 2020–2021 have brought to our world, patients are understandably anxious and stressed. Imagine undergoing a medical procedure on top of it. What if there were a simple, no cost way to deliver soothing energy and caring comfort to patients before a procedure? Try simply asking about their pets. While pet ownership can bring benefits for physical health, like lower systemic hypertension,1 the emotional benefits are the ones I have seen over and over, expressed in smiles and joyful stories. Sharing “pet tales” can quickly turn an anxiety laden affair into one of connection and care. Since approximately 67% of Americans have a pet2—perhaps even more so now, in the era of “pandemic puppies”—it is a high percentage strategy. Before, and especially during COVID, it is been my go-to form of vocal anesthesia before outpatient procedures. LEVERAGE THE “ZOO” Zooeyia is the word for the health benefits animals bring to humans.3 Pets provide a host of positive emotions including companionship, meaning, and social connection.4 A 2020 study by Goh et al demonstrated a positive impact on emotional well-being for the main pet caregiver, and benefits for older and nonmarried pet owners.5 In the primary care setting, benefits to the doctor-patient relationship have been noted when primary care providers ask about their patient’s pets.3 With a pet question or two, you can tap a treasury of positive memories and emotions. Let the pet stories loose and watch them replace anxiety with a warm and caring connection. A SOOTHING STRATEGY Asking about pets brings larger benefits as well since a more relaxed patient means more ease for all on the health care team. Pets are a natural “happy place”—a space of unconditional love and care. Having a simple and straightforward strategy for dialing down patient’s anxiety can bring comfort and ease to the physician as well. Inquiring about pets is a simple and practical way to translate the care in your heart into ease for all. As the pet conversation flows, it is as if their pet were there comforting them. Their pet gets to share an important and intimate part of their world from a safe distance—no sterility issues or unfortunate “accidents” involved. Of course, such inquiries must be with sincerity and from a place of genuine care. EASING INTO IT I have found its best to establish a bit rapport first, by asking if they had far to come today, or how the traffic was, Figure 1. Then, it feels natural to ask, “Do you have pets…dogs or cats? If they respond yes, ask what kind, and how old? Maybe someone else in the room—a resident, fellow, or technologist mentions a pet they have, with the focus staying on the patient and their pet. Ask about the moment when they arrive home and their pet takes them in with delight. Before you know it, you have tapped into the fun, comforting, and connecting world of pets.FIGURE 1.: Using pet questions to bring relaxation and connection before procedures.Often you can feel the “click”—the palpable shift in energy as the verbal flood gates open, the tension in the room drops, and the conversation flows. If they do not have a pet, other ease inducing topics can be a substitute. Perhaps it is their passion for a sport, travel, or gardening. Such substitutes can work well enough, but they may not carry the magic and emotional bond of one’s favorite pet. KEEPING IT FLOWING It’s not unusual for patients to say, “This talking is good...keep me talking.” They can feel it helping; the kindness and care are a bridge to help cross the river of anxiety. It is an emotional connection that, along with adequate conscious sedation, can help deliver maximum satisfaction for all. The “Yes, and…” concept of improv is also helpful.6 “Ah yes, you have a basset hound--that reminds me of my dog Peanuts I had growing up—how old is your dog?” Try to use their pet’s name(s) as you gently inquire. You might even ask about favorite things they do with their pet, and when they got them. Before you know it, they’ll be sharing funny stories, describing pet tricks, and more. This can even be a space for gentle humor. “Oh, you have a golden Labrador! Such smart dogs—I hear some people even train theirs to make dinner—yes?” Unleash your creativity and the fun and spontaneity will flow. A warm blanket can be another helpful offering to add ease and comfort. Even if they say, “No thanks,” they feel the care. You just might see it a softening shift in their eyes—“Oh, I’m going to be treated with kindness,” or hear an “Ahhhhh,” of relaxation. Such small actions can build a mountain of trust. Indeed, asking about their pets might be the emotional equivalent of a warm blanket. Why not use both? And at the end of the procedure you just might hear, “What, you’re done already?” Savor these words, and the satisfaction of knowing you’ve attuned to their physical and emotional needs. At the final goodbye, when I say, “Very nice to meet you...and take good care of “Fido,” it often generates a smile and a warm glow. It is a simple and genuine way to connect the care in your heart to their bond with their pet, and it brings ease and warmth to all. Figure 1 summarizes the overall approach. ACCIDENTS AND CAVEATS Of course, pet talk is not a substitute for local anesthesia or adequate conscious or other sedation. Rather, it is a helpful addition. Especially now in this continued time of stress, every moment of kindness matters. And sure, not everyone currently has a pet. But perhaps they did when they were growing up, or at a prior time in their life. Mine those happy times and help them connect with warm and resonate memories. Only once did asking about a pet have an unintended outcome—their beloved pet had recently passed. Still, it was a chance to connect in empathy and care, and opportunity to hear a wealth of positive memories of their pet. While asking about a patient’s children or grandchildren can also be helpful, these relationships are often more complex and can easily generate a mix of thoughts, memories, and emotions. BRINGING PETS TO LIFE Most humans long for meaningful conversation about things they care deeply about. Especially now, during this stressful time. Pet questions can bring ease and comfort in other relationships too—with family, friends, and even strangers. Carry a few “pet questions” in your pocket. They’re light, playful, and have no expiration date. Share them widely and savor their gifts.