Shared Understanding

My father is still in the hospital. Yesterday was a good day for him. He regained his speech but still has his medical issues. Many tests are being ordered. The care and professionalism at the hospital are top notch but there is one thing lacking. They are being clinical and ordering diagnostic tests. I am not being informed about the tests prior to them being done. Yesterday my father refused to go for a test and I was called. I immediately came to the hospital and discussed the benefits of the test with him and I okayed it with the staff. Last night he was told that this morning he was going for another test, this one under anesthesia,  and he called me right away. I called the hospital and told them that no tests are to be ordered without my consent or complete knowledge of why they need to be done. After I fully understand we can proceed. The test was put on hold until I get to the hospital this morning. This is where the concept of shared understanding comes it. Picture two circles. One circle is the doctor who is clinical. One circle is the family who is emotional. Move the circles together until they overlap a bit. That common area is shared understanding. It is when both parties are on common ground. Without shared understanding, there cannot be good communication. Today I will make sure that there is.