Medical Etiquette

How do I respectfully interact with people who have a medical condition?


Here are a few tips for respectfully interacting with people with medical conditions:

• There are a huge number of medical difficulties, ranging from asthma to HIV/AIDS, and in many cases these can be hidden or unseen disabilities.
• Be aware that beepers and strobe lights can trigger seizures in some people with epilepsy.
• Try to avoid spray-cleaning tables, windows or other surfaces in the company of someone you know has a medical difficulty. Some people with medical difficulties, for whatever reason, can react to toxins in the air. Stale air, fumes from cleaning products, perfume, carpeting, air freshener etc can trigger a severe reaction.
• Remember that second-hand smoke can be particularly harmful to people with respiratory difficulties.
• Use a modest amount of fragranced body-care products like deodorant, hair spray, hand lotion, and after-shave.
• Ensure that the room is well ventilated.
• When in doubt, always ask the person with the disability! The person with a disability is your best source of information.

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