Making the Journey

I picked up the patient intake summary sheet by the exam room door: “26-year-old female at 24 weeks pregnant here as new prenatal. Language preference: Spanish.” As I entered the exam room, I gave my usual greeting, knowing that I was running a bit behind. “Hola! Gracias por esperar. Soy el Dr Ruiz. En qué te puedo ayudar el día de hoy? (Hi! Thank you for waiting. My name is Dr Ruiz. How can I help you today?)” Immediately I noticed my new patient’s facial expression change from one of skepticism to one of happiness, followed by tears and a quiet “gracias (thank you).” Her emotions caught me off guard, but I knew that I had to put down my computer and be completely present with my new patient.