I was just leaning over to explain BUN and Creatinine levels to my friend Kari, sympathizing with the complexity of it all and reviewing Hematology jargon... and I noticed the man at the next table over (barely two feet away) listening to my conversation avidly... not unusual since a lot of residents study at B&N and I feel are often on the prowl for a significant other...
When we finished and I turned back to my work, he turned over to me and asked, "Do you speak Spanish?"
What?
"Um, no... sorry," I replied.
He seemed utterly surprised and almost insulted at my answer, saying, "Oh, I could have sworn I just heard you speak Spanish." As I repeated my apology and turned away, I couldn't help but notice him shake his head, as if to say, "people these days - what's the big deal about admitting you speak Spanish?"
Well if that isn't a metaphor for doctor-speak, I don't know what is. This is exactly why doctors need to stop reciting lab results to patients... but more on that some other day :)
