Tips  

 Build a rapport to create trust  

 Find your own style and approach 

 Be flexible and adapt your approach for each patient 

 Be self-aware so you can recognise when to adapt your style 

 Spend time refining your approach as this is a key part of most diagnosis making ⏱ 

Be conversational 

 Be friendly 😄

 Make the patient feel comfortable 

Set boundaries 

 Attire: wear appropriate clothes and a name badge 

 Introduction: greet the patient and introduce yourself and why you are there 

 Gain consent: make sure the patient wishes to go ahead ✅ 

 Confidentiality: what the patient tells you is confidential (the only exception is if they or someone else is at risk – you must inform the patient of this) 

 Time: tell the patient how much time you have ⏱ 

Gain patient trust

 Be honest  

 Be yourself 

 The patient will trust you if you do so 

The consultation 

 Cues: recognise verbal/non-verbal cues 

 Introduction: they may have rehearsed this, everything after this is conversational 

 Utilise silence: the patient may try to fill silences 

 Ask questions: e.g. ask if they have any questions❓ 

 Listen actively: nod and respond where appropriate 

 Summarise: summarise what they tell you back to them 

 Body language: face them, make eye contact, and show real interest 👁

Coaching style questions❓

 e.g. smoking cessation – ask questions such as “why do you want to change? How much do you want to change? What could be a barrier to change?” 

Remind the patient of the key points 

 Repeat the key points at the end 🔄 

 Ask them to repeat them back to you 

 Invite them to make notes ✍  

 Give them written information 📑

 Show them where they can find more information 📑

 Check they understand the information given  

 Tell them they can ask you or a colleague any questions they think of after the consultation❓ 

Post-consultation 

 Be aware of your own feelings, as consultations can be distressing 

 Make sure to be kind to yourself and the patient 

Summary:

1. Build a rapport by being conversational
2. Ask appropriate questions
3. Set boundaries
4. Your non-verbal actions are as important as what you say
5. Reiterate key points