Doctor: Hello Mr Rivera, how are you today?
Patient: Well it still hurts me a lot doctor. I am in deep pain
Doctor: Yes I would expect that, we have reviewed your x rays and you have a fractured rib.
There is no other visible damage.
Patient:Okay, what are we going to do.
Doctor: Well first of all how are you dealing with the pain medication? Is it helping you?
Patient: To tell the truth, no. It hurts me so much that I cannot sleep and it hurts me a lot when I
breathe.
Doctor: Ok, I will tell you what we will do. First I’ll give you strong medication so you can sleep.
It’s normal to have pain when you breathe because of your fracture and it will keep on hurting
until it is healed. You will get an anti-inflammatory painkiller. This will help you with your
breathing pain.
Patient: Very well.
Doctor: I want to ask you a question: What kind of work do you do?
Patient: I work at a warehouse in the store.
Doctor: Ok, I don’t want you to go to work for the next 5 days, just rest. No bending down,
twisting, or lifting heavy objects over 5 pounds. After that you can go back to work but I will write
you instructions for what you can't do. This means no bending down, no twisting, or lifting heavy
objects.
Patient: So I will rest for five days and then work lightly for what time, did you say?
Doctor: You will be on light duty for four weeks, then I will see you for a follow up in five weeks.
I have already sent the prescription to the pharmacy downstairs. Let them know at the front
desk that you need a follow up appointment after five weeks. If you have any symptoms such as
cough, fever, chest pain, shortness of breath, or increasing phlegm come see me. Any
questions?
Patient: No, none. Thank you very much doctor.