Beyond Bedside Manner

Abstract

Intuitive bedside manner is not always enough in dealing with physically ill patients who also present behavioral problems. These patients are better managed by organized, objective appraisal of the behavior and factors influencing it, such as the patient's personality pattern and characteristic reaction to crisis, the physician's approach, and the influence of social systems. Behavior that appears antitherapeutic can have an entirely different significance when seen as part of a relationship.