Hi guys

[therower]

Hi @kaylz91 . Re your DSN and her attitude. I'm going to put a slightly different angle on things.
By your own admission you find it difficult to ask questions, not your fault, but unless the DSN is aware of this then maybe she feels you are someone who isn't to bothered about being there. A negative atmosphere.
She maybe a brilliant DSN who isn't brilliant at initiating a conversation.
After her time doing her job she is at a point where she is frustrated that she still has to give the same advice to the same patients week in week out. She needs a challenge, she needs someone to challenge her and let her express and use her knowledge. Someone to be that stand out patient for the day.
As difficult as it may be, go in with a positive mind, smile and say something along the lines of " it's great to have the chance to see you again, I feel that you're the one person who I feel can help me"
If it works, result.
If it fails, then she's a poo DSN. And us guys here will offer as much support as we can.

 

[donnellysdogs]

Tell her honestly that you are scared and need help but find answering questions or even asking questions so terribly difficult.

Making DSN aware AND consultant is important.

If they fail to engage and help once you have explained then theres other decisions that you would need to consider.

 

[DCUKMod]

@kaylz91 - I have a way with dealing with appointments where I either feel very nervous, or if I think I might struggle to get my fair say. Like the others, I make a list of the things I want to cover, then have a further copy on a separate sheet of paper.

When I go into my appointment, I get my list out as the greetings are going on, and lay it on the desk, so that it's within touching range of us both, and make a light statement, something like, "I've brought a list of things I've really been desperate to talk to you about, but have a memory like a goldfish."

The other person usually acknowledges that in some way, and sometimes will ask what's on there. If that happens I pass them the list from the desk and get my copy out so that we can go through things together, although sometimes they'll maybe be keen to get on with their agenda, but as things are sort of wrapping up, I'll make sure they see me pick up my list, and I'll maybe see something like "We covered a lot of things, but let me check my list to make sure we've covered it all".

I've never had anyone say they hadn't time to go through the list, and if they did I'd be asking how I got answers to my questions today.

It means everything is clear up front that you need things from the appointment too, and that you value the appointment, and if I'm nervous the list helps my memory and makes it easy to ensure I'm heard.

Your OH might also find a copy of the list useful too as he could be ticking things off as you go along, and make sure you don't come out short changed.

Good luck with it all.