What to Do When You Forget the Side of a Patient’s Injury

Let’s face it: forgetting which side of the body a patient’s injury is on happens to all of us at some point in our careers. If someone claims they’ve never made this mistake, they’re probably not being entirely honest. Just recently, a new grad in our clinic confided how embarrassed she felt after forgetting which side her patient’s injury was on. She hesitated to bring it up, fearing judgment from more experienced therapists. We couldn’t help but laugh—not at her, but because we’ve all been there.

A Common Scenario

Here’s a relatable example: I once had a long-term patient who had torn both ACLs—one years ago and the other more recently. While working with her, I occasionally blanked on which knee we were treating. Thankfully, because of the trust we had built over the years, I could simply ask, “Which knee are we focusing on again?” without any awkwardness.

Simple Solutions to Avoid Awkwardness

When these moments happen, it’s important to handle them gracefully and professionally. Here are strategies to avoid that dreaded “Actually, it’s my other side” moment:

1. Ask Patients to Point to Their Pain

Before beginning treatment, ask the patient to point to the main area of their pain or discomfort that day. This approach:

• Helps you confirm the injury site without making it obvious you’ve forgotten.

• Encourages the patient to provide clear feedback, ensuring a productive session.

2. Use Consistent Verbiage

Adopt a standard way of asking for clarification with every patient. For example:

• “Can you show me exactly where you’re feeling discomfort today?” This creates consistency, so patients won’t pick up on any hesitation or uncertainty.

3. Double-Check Before the Session

Before bringing the patient to the treatment area, review:

• Their chart or notes to confirm the injury side.

• Their name (because let’s be honest, we’ve all blanked on that too).

Personally, I double-check the injury side and name 2-3 times to ensure I’m fully prepared.

4. Make Notes Easily Accessible

In your documentation system, mark the injury side clearly and in multiple locations. For example:

• Use “L” or “R” prominently in the assessment or initial note.

• Place the side in a spot you can quickly reference, especially when you have limited time between sessions.

The Takeaway

Forgetting the side of an injury is not a career-ending mistake—it’s a relatable, human moment. By implementing these strategies, you can:

• Maintain trust with your patients.

• Avoid awkward situations.

• Stay confident and prepared for every session.

Remember, it’s not about never making mistakes but about how you handle them when they arise. With a little preparation and consistency, you’ll navigate these moments with ease.