Patient self needling

[Guest guest]

Lynn wrote: " so, the thought of sending needles home with patients,

let alone trusting them with self needling, sends a few chills down

my spine. "

 

Maya: I couldn't agree with you more, Lynn. While there may a be a

patient here and there who would safely self-needle, the risk is far

too great. I have seen patients do some pretty aweful things to

themselves from a lack of information or understanding. In the

interest of patient safety, as well as my own legal protection, I

limit my " at-home " suggestions to diet, exercises, digital

stimulation of points and sometimes I instruct a patient in the use

of moxa poles. Even with moxa, I am cautious. I write out the

advice instructions so as to avoid any misunderstanding, even for

the most basic of directions. I keep a form in my files

titled " suggestions from your acupuncturist " with my contact

information easily visible. That way the patient can read what was

said in the office and call me with any concerns or questions,

later. Additionally, I keep a copy of the written instruction in

the patient's file so I can quickly reference the instructions if

any questions or confusion arise.

 

Just a minute or two extra can help everyone feel more at ease.

From a legal standpoint, if there is ever a question of the

practitioner's choices/instructions, there is a record of it in the

file.

 

Maya