Every doctor knows how important and valuable nurses are. I rely on them to call me when a newborn baby in the hospital seems to be having trouble. It is rare that I receive such a call, but I expect one every now and then.

I got a call that will probably make me smile for years to come whenever I think about it. The nurse paged me and I promptly called back, cuz usually such calls are for something pretty important. The nurse informed me that she was worried about a newborn because the baby kept sticking his tongue out. I didn't say anything right away, because I was waiting for her to tell me more, like the baby is have some breathing difficultly or has a fever, or something serious. After a few seconds, I realized that there wasn't anything further that she had to tell me. I got a huge smile on my face and tried so desperately not to laugh out loud. I don't think I was entirely successful, because she immediately sensed that I was amused. She went on to explain that she didn't think it was really a problem, but it just seemed unusual to her so she thought she better call me. She then asked if I was laughing at her, and I tried to say no but she could hear it in my voice. By then, I could hear other nurses in the background laughing too. I felt so bad, because I knew she must have been embarrassed beyond measure. I've known this nurse for a while, and often joke around with her anyway, so I knew there were no hard feelings.

But every time I see her now I can't help smiling over this. I just hope she never realizes that I am STILL laughing about this months later.

Dr. Bob