How would you handle a patient who was being rude to a scheduler or nurse?

"Being rude is one thing, but abuse is another. Personal attacks and verbal abuse with foul language are hurtful and ugly for other patients to see. I would have a duty to protect not only my colleague in this situation from any abuse from a patient. If the situation didn't quite go that far, I would quickly insert myself into the conversation to respectfully let the patient know they were out of line."

In a situation like this, you need to ensure that the patient knows they are out of line. As a sports medicine physician, you will be working with patients of every age, and your ability to handle challenging situations needs to be displayed. Make sure to point out that you won't be hesitant to say something to the patient in a respectful manner of your own in this situation.

"Just as it is important for staff to respect patients, patients must treat staff respectfully. As a fellow with your program, I assure you that I would speak cordially with the patient in this situation. Of course, I would take the time to listen to them and hear their concern. It's a fine line to walk, one I became familiar with during my residency training."