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|Articles|June 1, 2008

Idea Exchange: Discreet clock-watching in the exam room

Like many veterinarians, I prefer not to wear a wristwatch because of frequent hand washing, yet I need a second hand for measuring heart rates or respiration or performing ocular tear tests.

Like many veterinarians, I prefer not to wear a wristwatch because of frequent hand washing, yet I need a second hand for measuring heart rates or respiration or performing ocular tear tests. Since displaying a clock in the exam room may foster client impatience, my solution is to keep an inexpensive wall clock in a cabinet drawer. During patient examinations, I discreetly open the drawer as needed, watch the clock to get my rate, and then slide the drawer closed when finished.

Dr. Karen S. Phillips

Pittsburgh, Pa.


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