Dr. Saurabh Rajguru, a specialist in leukemias and lymphomas at UW Carbone Cancer Center, emphasizes the importance of clear communication with his patients. Recognizing that terms like “neutrophils” and “lymphocytes” can be unfamiliar to many, he strives to minimize medical jargon during consultations.
“I try to phrase things in a more straightforward manner,” Rajguru explained. He encourages patients to ask questions, asserting that there is no such thing as too many or bad questions. “Knowledge is power, and the more you know the better we will navigate your journey,” he added.
To make complex concepts accessible, Rajguru uses analogies. He describes neutrophils as the body’s infantry soldiers fighting infections and likens lymph nodes to police stations with lymphocytes acting as police cars transporting intruders. When discussing immunotherapy drugs, he tells patients these medications work by “taking the brakes” off the immune system.
Rajguru stresses that effective patient communication is a skill developed throughout medical training. “You hone in on the things that work and don’t work,” he said.
Acknowledging that treatment discussions can be overwhelming, Rajguru advises patients to take notes or have someone accompany them for support. He also encourages them to write down questions that arise after appointments for future discussions.
“Oftentimes all of this information will come at them at lightspeed,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of ongoing dialogue. He reassures patients not to hesitate if they need further clarification: “Don’t be afraid to say, ‘I don’t understand, use simpler terms.’ I think we as providers want to know and welcome that discussion.”
