Real-Life Decision Making -- Solution
You refuse the painkillers and let her suffer with the stress.
The patient has listened to the reasons why her knee is hurting. She understands that it is mainly due to the stress that comes from running. She has agreed to try to replace running with other sports -- cycling and tennis.
But you have discussed this before. With the painkillers, this patient has continued to run. Whenever you saw her, you couldn't help but wonder what damage was being done by what was intended to help.
If the patient didn't have the painkillers, then she would feel the damage. You honestly feel that if she were to feel the damage and understand that it is truly from the stress of running, then she would discontinue the sport.
You are worried that if the patient takes the painkillers, she will not listen to her body and the knee injury will develop into a major problem.
Sports doctor Ron Reznick says he has seen patients with bad injuries that continue to work the area, and end up with a lifetime injury. He says there are certain injuries that could become permanent. It is the sports doctor's responsibility to make sure the patient knows that. "Feedback from doctor to patient is vital," says Reznick.
You refuse to give this patient the painkillers. It bothers you to do so, but you know if the patient does not have the painkillers, she will listen to her body more. If her knee continues to hurt, she will have to stop running and focus on less strenuous sports.