Finally, always try to learn something from the experience. Ask yourself how you might prevent a repetition of the complaint, what you did that you can avoid doing next time, and how you might prevent unrealistic expectations in a similar future situation.
Above all, never take complaints personally – even when they are personal. It’s always worth reminding yourself that no matter how hard you try, you can never please everyone.
Dr. Eastern practices dermatology and dermatologic surgery in Belleville, N.J. He is the author of numerous articles and textbook chapters, and is a long-time monthly columnist for Dermatology News. Write to him at dermnews@frontlinemedcom.com.