Handshakes in the ER: A simple gesture can ease patient anxiety

An emergency medicine resident at Northwestern University recounts a recent shift where a patient faced a suspected oncologic emergency. The physician introduced herself with a handshake to the patient and her family, noting the nervous atmosphere.

The brief human connection helped to reduce tension as the care team moved quickly through assessments, blood draws, and discussions about a potentially life‑changing diagnosis. While the medical evaluation intensified, the simple act of shaking hands provided a moment of calm.

The author argues that such small gestures of empathy can make a meaningful difference in patient experience, especially in high‑stress settings like the emergency department.

The piece calls for a renewed focus on personal interaction in medicine, suggesting that restoring these human touches could improve communication and trust during critical moments.