Introduction
What’s the Problem?
D
r. Hall exits the elevator to the third-floor intensive care unit (ICU), carefully balancing his coffee mug while trying to badge swipe the door and keep his computer bag from spilling its contents to the floor. Carole, the charge nurse for the day, nods hello as he perches his mug on the nurse’s station while sliding his computer bag under the desk. “Morning, Carole,” he says, motioning to the room across the corridor. “How is Mrs. Chaudhry today?” Carole’s eyes widen. “Oh, she must be new.” One of the residents is sitting next to Carole, and Dr. Hall catches his eye while struggling to read his name badge. “Dr. Jackowitz,” he asks tentatively, “what can you tell me about patient Chaudhry?” “Oh, I’m new today; I’ll have to check the computer.” Turning around, Dr. Hall sees Tom saunter up the hall. Tom (Dr. Green) is the cardiology fellow assigned to the ICU this week. Hoping for some relief, Dr. Hall asks him about Mrs. Chaudhry. A blank stare tells him Dr. Green will be of little help this morning. Addressing Paula, the unit housekeeper, Dr. Hall rolls his eyes and mutters, “I guess I will be on my own again today,” knowing full well that Mrs. Chaudhry has been a patient on the unit for more than two days. Paula, who has worked there for fifteen years, nods slightly and smiles. She appreciates that Dr. Hall always says hello when he passes her. 17
