what to say to someone waiting for medical results what to say to someone waiting for medical results

2023 MJH Life Sciences and CURE - Oncology & Cancer News for Patients & Caregivers. Most importantly, I ask that you assist me in relying on you during this stressful time. Lastly, Lord, please help me trust fully in your wisdom and in the knowledge that you will bless me with sound health. nag your doctor, Test result communication in primary care: clinical and office staff perspectives, To track the progression of a chronic illness, To check for a recurrence of a treated condition. 1. Colossians 3:15 NIV Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body, you were called to peace. "I'm praying for you, your medical team, and your family." If you are a praying person, consider lifting the doctors, nurses, and hospital staff up in your prayers. Uncertainty is not easy to handle and some are more difficult to handle than others. Anju Goel, MD, MPH, is a board-certified physician who specializes in public health, communicable disease, diabetes, and health policy. Everlasting God, I surrender my anxiety to you and ask that you overwhelm me with your love. I bind every spirit of error in any stage of the procedure. I underwent a PET scan last Thursday. - Unknown. First, you have the right to see the results of every test you undergo. With chronic illness, follow-ups are often necessary to monitor the illness or see if a treatment is working. It might be natural to offer to help by saying, Let me know if you need anything at all. However, that can put a person dealing with an illness in an awkward position of having to think of a way for you to assist them, said Nick Arquette, founder and CEO of Walk With Sally, a nonprofit that provides services to families impacted by cancer. When theres a chance you may have a serious illness, the delay between testing and diagnosis can be torturous. May the images that will be revealed provide the doctors the insight they need to treat me effectively to bring about my bodys recovery. It can divinely turn around the outcome of any medical test when waiting for the result. All uncertainties are not equal. You can also encourage your friend with comforting words like: I will be right here for you, regardless of what the test results reveal. Waiting for test results. Thank you for helping me complete the process successfully. Its human nature to focus on yourself, Winawer said. U | You have to read the situation and the person. However, sometimes a face-to-face visit is warranted. A healthcare provider may also call to assure you everything is okay or discuss any needed follow-up tests. I ask that you make the findings of my biopsy tests conclusive and nothing to worry about. Everyone will deal with their illness or condition differently. All it really means, though, is that the test didn't detect the virus. they changed their minds and began to say that he was a god. I am sending you all my love and prayers during this time. Your email address will not be published. I hope you recover as quickly as . F | Dear Heavenly Father, as I sit waiting for my chest x-ray results here in the hospital, may the findings turn out good, even better than I expected. God Works While We Wait Something actually happens while nothing is happening. Waiting for the results of biopsy testing, scans, or lab tests can understandably weigh heavily on your mind. Thinking about you and hoping that you are having a good day. Waiting for test results related to your cancer, chronic illness or other condition can be nerve-wracking (to say the least). Assist me in being patient and calm during this period of waiting. You are always in my thoughts and prayers you mean so much to me. Jeremiah 29:11 NIV For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. May all the glory be ascribed unto your holy name. Unfortunately, its also inevitable that well all deal with this kind of situation in life. 6. Whoever said there's no way to make time stand still clearly never had to endure the excruciating wait for scan results. Be kind to yourself and don't blame yourself for having your feelings. There, youll also find thoughts and questions by our community. You want to be sure the insurance is reported on the bill you receive, West says. Impatience can workits way beyond your diagnosis and enter other parts of your life as well. .css-tadcwa:hover{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}Sophia Swinford - @media screen and (max-width: 767px){.css-1xovt06 .date-separator{display:none;}.css-1xovt06 .date-updated{display:block;width:100%;}}published on 07/02/18. "There is actually something happening while nothing is happening. Mighty God, I ask that you help me as I await my test result. A pat on the back, 'thinking of you', grin of support. Dont Make promises to whatever higher power you believe is in charge of the universe that you will make wholesale changes to your life in return for a good test result. Don't wait. Most of all, bless me with good health, in Jesus name. You are in my thoughts and prayers every day. On the other hand, if the results only require a minute or two of the provider's time, it's fair to ask for the results by phone, mail, or secure message. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Matthew 11:28-30 NIV Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Amen! . Send them soothing Scriptures to alleviate their anxious feelings and replace them with peace and calmness. What to Say to Someone With Cancer. However, if you are not sure of the diagnosis, some information can be confusing and upsetting. Waiting for the results of a medical test, or for a diagnosis, can be agonizing. H | It seems even people with the best intentions sometimes say the worst things possible when a friend or family member faces a cancer diagnosis. 2. On the other hand, do you have "toxic friends" who you may need to bid goodbye. Dont tell the person it will be okay because in reality no one really knows if it will or not, Sanders said. Cortisol is a hormone that is released by the adrenal glands when one is under stress. Whatever youre feeling is okay. However, sometimes the angry feelings burst out inappropriately, like on the lab technician whos trying to take your blood sample for a test. 5. One of the best things you can say is, "Just tell me if you want me to leave or stop askingyou can't offend me!". Amen! 2) Schedule Worry Time. Even if you are a doctor, or have dealt with a similar condition, keep in mind that everyones experience is different. May your divine presence be with me as always and bless me with good results in this routine procedure. You may feel impatient with the line to get out of the parking ramp at the store. I pray that my results will be normal so I can glorify you with a healthy body. W | Dont Stop planning for the future, including what youre going to have for dinner. Whatsoever illness is hiding in my body, turn it around in my favor and return full movement back in my bones. Everyone is so different and a one caring response is not easy. If you decide to use the healthcare provider, be sure to review the Terms of Agreement included in any intake documents you sign. Grief, terror, anger, depression and other overwhelming emotions can all affect cancer patients. Sending good, healthy recovery vibes your way. Dont Waste any time trying to feel where in the body your cancer has mostly likely returned. Just when I was tired and feeling down, a vase of flowers would appear on my doorstep, or one of them would send me a thoughtful text to check in, she said. 1. . You can also: They may. What do you say to someone expecting results? Also, strengthen me to receive the outcome in good faith, whatever it may be. If you feel worried, anxious, or stressed, take comfort in knowing that your feelings are normal and experienced by many people. Sometimes the uncertainty leaves you seemingly without an anchor. There are some things you can do while you wait: If you are living with chronic pain, make sure you discuss it with your healthcare providers. I can hear it has been really hard for you to share, thank you for sharing. ~ Isaiah 26:3. All rights reserved. I pray that the medical test results I expect will bring tears of joy down my cheeks. Please fill me with the grace to be open to any path you decide to take me after this test. Remove all your fears and have faith . Think the negative thoughts. True love is bound to reveal itself sooner or later.". Do all test results require a follow-up appointment? X | Lord Jesus, Im grateful for your mercy and grace in my life. 2). I also ask that you fill them with wisdom to fit all the pieces together. Mary Kugler, RN, is a pediatric nurse whose specialty is caring for children with long-term or severe medical problems. 10 Things to say to someone with a chronic illness. . Lastly, Alison and Brian urge you: dont over-promise! Sending you a note to let you know that I am thinking of you. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved. That's true when you're first being diagnosed with something or managing a chronic illness. You won't know whether you're fine or the results were somehow lost or not properly communicated to you. If you're tested during or after your appointment, ask: You can then contact your insurance provider to get a clearer understanding of their policies. Encouragement Messages For Exams 1). Foods that are rich in vitamin B, such as avocados and almonds, are known to help reduce stress, while depression has been linked to low levels of folic acid, so introduce veg such as asparagus and broccoli as well as citrus fruits into your diet. Did you know prayer works in everything we do? I know there are so many people who need their attention. Can you sue someone for almost hitting you? ~Psalm 94:19. Holiday or anytime gift ideas for a cancer patient. 7. Test result communication in primary care: clinical and office staff perspectives. "Never rush into a relationship. Any sort of health crisis signals a huge change in your life, and its frightening, said Melodie Winawer, a neurologist and neuroscientist at Columbia University. Father God, I ask that you remove this anxious feeling as I wait for my test results. Through them, may I receive a mind-blowing testimony in Jesus Mighty Name. Chronic conditions that are well managed shouldn't require many appointments, either. Basically, waiting is not fun. Even before the pandemic, plenty of studies have found that waiting for medical test results can cause . But waiting for diagnosis delays that process since you don't even know what you can do to solve the problem. Want to see fewer ads on Aleteia? News of a new diagnosis should usually be given face-to-face. Fill out this form to share your experience. As with impatience, frustration with your medical issue can carry over to other parts of your life. You knit each of us together in the womb. S | Theres often a flurry of activity and assistance immediately following a diagnosis or accident, Winawer said. Here are uplifting words of encouragement and encouraging words and quotes for anyonefriend, family or spouse. If you do want to ask about their treatment or how they are feeling, try What is the latest?. Offer to chauffeur or even attend appointments. Philippians 4:6-7 NIV Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Father I thank you for your mercy and your grace upon my life and my family, be thou magnified, in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Winawer suggested. It is perfectly normal to experience a whole raft of different emotions such as anger, denial, worry about children and partners, desolation, crying, coping with treatment, etc. Your fretting needs an outlet, though. So, instead of allowing anxiety to get the best of you, you should channel your energy into praying for good results when you are awaiting a test outcome. Engage in Relaxing and Joyful Activities Feelings of stress and anxiety while waiting for the test results can make you become restless and fidget with objects around you. It appears you entered an invalid email. Activities that are immersive and require your complete focus . Thank you for being with me during my biopsy. Even with potentially serious chronic conditions, like HIV or diabetes, once your condition is under control, you may only need to see a healthcare provider once a year. Perhaps, you have undergone a series of medical tests, and it turned out that you have a condition that requires medical attention; you should pray for a medical miracle. Lord, I ask for your guidance as I receive my MRI results today. Summary. Sympathy is a turn off for me; I'm not dead, just scared! Get better and get back to your amazing self soon! Family Practice. Clin Infect Dis. In other words, pitch in by taking an everyday task off their to-do list, like doing the laundry, making sure the bills are paid and mailed off or having dinner ready for the family. Merciful God, I pray that each image will successfully show my insides just as you created them. Whatever the tests outcome, we will pray it to God together. It can be easier said than done. What to Say to a Cancer Patient "We'll get through this together. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We have collected a lot of medical information. This article will look at when it's needed, when it's not, and how to set expectations with your healthcare provider. A lover of hip hop music, hot sauce and kimchi, she lives in Maryland with her husband, two dogs, cat and feisty 2-year-old daughter. Waiting Quotes Quotes tagged as "waiting" Showing 1-30 of 787 "If pain must come, may it come quickly. 'That may be through reading, listening to music, meditation or confiding in a friend.' It was as if the movie of my life had been kicked out of freeze frame and I was back in the flow. Tell your story to us, no matter how big or small. In some cases, they want you to get tested a week or two before an appointment. Y | In such cases, the medical professional has no right to withhold them from you or require you to pay for a visit in order to get them. Delaney KP, Hanson DL, Masciotra S, Ethridge SF, Wesolowski L, Owen SM. Get better and get back to your amazing self soon! Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Psalm 56:3-4 NIV When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. It can help to learn about the condition you might be facingbut don't rush that processyou will be ready to know more when the time is right for you. Lord I thank you for your strength, your love and your peace, all glory belongs to you, in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Take action from that place of power. Everything Is Not OK: A TV Show Gave Me Flashbacks to Cancer, Radiation Dose May Increase Risk of Colorectal Cancer in Hodgkin Lymphoma Survivors, TKI Drug Plus Chemotherapy May Improve Lung Cancer Outcomes. If he has to make a choice, may he make it now. You may feel flooded with feelings of anxiety, dread, guilt and worry. "Let's plan a girls' night after you recover from your surgery!" The obvious assumption is that things will go well when you say you are eager to make plans with someone after surgery. To check in with ourselves and notice what our thoughts are focused on and what tension we may be holding in our bodies. If any foreign material is discovered in the test results, remove them with your miraculous hands. You can have many wishes for good medical results, but the best option remains to seek Gods help in anxious times through prayers. In fact, waiting can actually be a positive good that he often uses to make us more like his Son. If results are concerning, they may call you or have a receptionist call to schedule an appointment. Anything you can do to provide some fun and normalcy will ease stress for the whole family., Also, you can navigate around the ask by asking the persons spouse how you may be able to help. Pray for peace so that the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard both your heart and mind. Some people cope by educating themselves and trying to map out their possible options; others reduce stress by distracting themselves with whatever feels fun; still others find the waiting time provides the opportunity to assess . If a friend or family member reaches out to you while they wait, you may find yourself at a loss for words. In an age of instant everything, cancer patients being told that the data from the cutting edge technology that is creating real-time images of our innards will be available in anything less than a nanosecond defies logic and seems unnecessarily cruel. If youre facing a possible life-changing diagnosis, the waiting can be especially stressful. If a healthcare provider asks you to schedule an appointment to go over test results and it doesn't seem necessary, ask why. If a bill is higher than expected, confirm your insurer has been billed correctly. 65. Cancer patients simply want to be their old selves, Spiegel says, so they often can fail to make their new needs clear to their loved ones and caregivers, which can lead to frustration and anger. If results are shared by phone, email, or online, how does the office ensure they will only be shared with me or my designees? Ask your healthcare provider about how test results will be delivered. Immediately upon leaving the mobile scan machine, it was once again 2009 and I was walking out of my first CT scan trying to read the faces of the technicians who had monitored the process. Understand that being there for someone with a serious health issue is a balancing act, Pandapas said. A cortisol blood test is one of the most commonly used blood tests. If you feel like talking Im here to listen. Please, Lord, make my diagnosis a good one. Waiting a long time for a diagnosis that has serious implications can lead to feelings of having no control over things or being overwhelmed. The way you think things would have been, or should be, is suddenly de-railed, she said. Nationwide News Pty Ltd 2023. What to say to a friend who has received bad news? The anxiety of not knowing can be all-consuming. Were looking to feature moments in which someone interrupted their busy life to lend a hand to someone they didnt know. See if there's anything that can be done to help control your symptoms, even if the interventions are only temporary until you find out what treatments you will need for the long term. Feel the feelings Let them out, give your anxiety, your worry your darkest fears a voice. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. A note to remind you that I love youand I hate that you're sick. Here's the number: 1-877-632-6789." "I am here for you." Then follow through and really be there. We know you will again come out with flying colors. Yet when the danger we are considering comes from our thoughts, rather than an acute and readily apparent danger in our midst (such as a lion attacking) the reaction can lead to further anxiety and stress, causing physical responses such as increased heart rate, rapid breathing, and more. 64. Your enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Could I tell from the demeanor whether or not the results were good or bad? I heard you're doing well after surgery. Although each person with cancer is different, here are some general suggestions for showing support: Dont say I know how you feel because you cant possibly know. Waiting for a diagnosis can be one of the most difficult things a person experiences. I have faith in you!" This is a good message to use when your friend is scared or doubtful. Help them to get comfortable (have them sit or lie down). I also request that you guide my radiologist to make wise and knowledgeable suggestions to my doctors afterward. Ask them to name five things they can see, hear, smell or feel. What do you say to someone awaiting cancer results? You may feel fed up with the entire process of diagnosis and feel like just walking away from the whole thing. Do Realize that all of our planning, cancer or no cancer, is based on the assumption that we're going to be around in the future. Check out the dos and donts below: No matter what, it is better to say something than nothing, said Ron Blake, a sexual assault survivor who has experienced post-traumatic stress disorder. Do Make a promise to yourself to use your time (however much that is) to bring joy, lightness and ease into your life and the lives of all those you touch. What do you need right nowand what dont you need? . Above all, please guide my doctors while they look over my test results and give them the insight they need to interpret them correctly. Whoever said there's no way to make time stand still clearly never had to endure the excruciating wait for scan results. - Jayden Hayes. You know that I have been leaning in on You for full and complete healing of this problem, and I am standing on Your Word in this matter. Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 2012-2023 On Secret Hunt - All Rights Reserved This will make them less anxious. They probably dont need armchair treatment recommendations based on your second cousins brothers experience.. James 1:5 NIV If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. Gracious Lord, may no fluid be found in my body or anything out of place so that I will not need any medication. Each person can experience some or all of them, and you might experience some at different times than others. You're the bravest person I know, and you will get through this. Make a follow-up appointment beforehand if the results might be something you need to discuss. Many people in a situation like yours would have that reaction. 2022 Mighty Proud Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Either way is okay, and dont press people who dont seem ready to talk about it. We did manage a toast to health, and once again cursed the evil bastards who, in my cynical mind, think nothing of taunting those of us challenged by cancer with our very survivorship. You may feel tense and your mind may be troubled with how this diagnosis may affect you and your loved ones. It is early days still and I presume that you have not had any results from your MRI, Ultrasound and biopsies yet. Get off your butt and put your body in motion. A | When You Need an Appointment Healthcare providers order lab tests for four main reasons: To diagnose a condition To see if a treatment is effective To track the progression of a chronic illness To check for a recurrence of a treated condition The test results may be simple and straightforwardsay, positive or negative. This anger is often directed at the medical system that is making you wait for your diagnosis. 2014;31(5):592-597. doi:10.1093%2Ffampra%2Fcmu041. Stick around in the long run, and try to send a text every so often or another way to show you care, like a gift certificate for a massage or manicure. Yes, it does! Also, dont assume theyre doing fine just because they look fine, she added. If youve ever been sent home from the doctors clinic with the words Well have your results in a week, youll know the next seven days can feel like an eternity. As access to testing has increased and roughly 750,000 Americans per day line up for a Covid-19 test, wait times for results have climbed up to two weeks in many places and more people than ever may be experiencing test result anxiety, experts say.. What do you say to someone who is nervous about surgery? Proverbs 25:25 NIV Like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land. Are you looking for Bible verses for good medical test results? As well as provide the best care possible where required. St Leonards NSW Synonyms of waiting waiting 1 of 2 noun Definition of waiting as in delay Synonyms & Similar Words Relevance delay hesitation procrastination indecision pause hawing faltering wavering wobbling second thought doubt uncertainty vacillation hesitancy wabbling consideration irresolution hesitance fence-sitting indecisiveness incertitude deliberation So you make the call and once again, youre waiting. This wait can make you feel numb or it can make you feel like the Tasmanian Devil is living inside your head, running in 100 directions at once, wreaking havoc in your mind. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy. Lord, I ask that you take absolute control as I undergo a crucial medical test today. So do something for . How do you stay calm when waiting for medical results? Australia 1590, 0-9 | Ultimately, your greatest weapon against waiting-time anxiety is distraction. Remember, it's harder for bad news to hit a moving target. You can also discuss side effects and dosage changes that may be needed. Just wanted to send my love, along with my wishes for a speedy recovery.