When The Cat's Away

    You've heard the saying, "When the cat's away the mice will play."  Well, our boss had to take the afternoon off today, and we did anything but play.  We brainstormed.  We went out and had a slightly longer lunch than usual, but then we got down to business.  We had a great team meeting to go over the information I learned at the SPICE (statewide program for infection control education) meeting that I attended last week.  Where you might have thought I'd hear grumbling, instead I got input.  I didn't have to drag anyone into the meeting, they came with notepads and pens.  We discussed ways to improve our already very good infection control and then talked about ways to improve in general.  Two hours flew by.  We got off track a little and told some stories and had fun, but we got a lot accomplished.  Our hygienist came up with a great idea.  She said she saw an article in one of her periodicals about oral cancer self-checks for patients.  She said she wished we could put the information on a card that she could slip into their take home bags.  Her wish is my command.  I'll get to work on that tomorrow.  The other hygienist came up with other ideas for cards as well.  The whole team agreed to teach each other about what they know best so that everyone can discuss all types of issues with patients. 
    When I first thought about keeping the staff in the office with no patients to work on, I have to admit, my first thought was dread.  What would I fill the time with?  I realized as I watched their enthusiasm and interest, that I had underestimated them.  What a great testament to their character that they didn't try to manipulate me into letting them leave on such a beautiful day.  What a sign of respect for my boss that even though he wasn't in the office, everyone kept plugging away, thinking of ways to improve our practice.  Yep, it was a very good day.

Comments

[Teresa Duncan]

Great idea about the take home card!