Introduction

Befor entering the room:

Read the scenario.

Notice pt last name and the chief complain.

Write Pt name, abnormal Vitals, 2DD + (OPDFSC-LIQRAAA+PAMHSFOSS).

Knock the door and enter immediately after hear yes.
Mr/xxxx (SMILE), Good morning! Shake hands. (Dont shake if the pt in pain situation)
Im Dr.,,,,,,,,,,,,,. Im your physician today.
Nice to meet you! Look into the eyes!
Let me make you slightly more comfortable, put drape.
Tell me.how can i help you today?
Show Empathy! Im really sorry for this I will do my best to help u and make u feel better.
If SP in pain, I can see u in pain, dont worry I am here to help u,,
or to say is there is anything I can do to help u feel more comfortable right now. I am
going to ask u some Qs,, if the Pt said no doctor I cant talk respond dont worry I am
doing most of the talking, I am really sorry? If in examination asked u dont move her,,so
dont move the pateint against his well, unless u have to do that?
Use phrases, okay, right, thats good, let me help, let us focus now.
Dont look shocked, surprised, raise eyebrows or look to your swatch
Dont cut off the pt answer.
Sensitive issues that may tears up, keep silence for full Second.
then say this must have been difficult time for you take your time.
let me take care of you.
Patient believes should not be denied, even if they seem implausible to the physician. If pt
says oh, its only nit b deficiency you can respond this is one of the possibilities. Id like
to check some other possibilities.
Always reassure the patient if she shocked from your question.
Dont be alarmed its just specific question.
Rephrase or repeat what the patient saying to you.
Use the lay ward, dont use medical terms,is there is any thing coming up with cough instead sputum
where the pain moves on instead radiating.
Use transitional phrases now I am going to ask you some Qs about ur health in general

Summarize in brief, significant information in the History, then ask is that correct?
Explain initial diagnostic impression (lay terms),clot in lung instead Pulmonary Embolism.
Explain the investigation needed, tell the pat some test need to be run blood test instead CBC.
FOR THE PSYCHIATRIC CASES, Mr,Smith, I am really consider your complain, Here in our hospital they r
running some supporting group they are really good, I am encouraging you to join them, I can arrange this for you.
Patient who cant afford the test, offer her social support team.

Example:

History (O-PDF-SC-LIQR/ABCO-AAA)
Tell more about it ?







Onset: When did this start?

Progression: How is it progressing? Or is it getting worse or better?
Duration: How long is it last every time?
Frequency: How often does it occur? Does it Come & Go or constant?
Situation: What were you doing when it start?
Cause: Do you notice any cause for this complain? Is it relating to food intake/ recent travel?

 PAIN C/O:

 Location: Can you show me, where it is?

 Intensity: How would you grade your pain on a scale of 1-10? Where 10 is most sever pain
Show sympathy here, It must be pretty bad I will do my best to make you feel better.
 Quality: Can you describe the pain?.... Piercing, burning, throbbing, dull/ sharp?
 Onset: Did it start sudden or gradual?
 Radiation: Does the pain move anywhere else?
 Alleviating factors: Is there any factor which makes the pain better?
 Aggravating factors: Is there any factor which makes the pain worse?
 Associated problem: Do you have any other associated problem like..? to cover this topic:

TO COVER THE ASSOCIATION SYMPTOMES FOLLOW THIS STRATEGY FOR ALL COMPLAINS & ask on 2
sections:
Symptoms related to the same system involved (according to the complaint):
Example: abdominal pain we will ask about vomit, diarrhea, constipation, change in weight.








Review of System: as following

Constitutional: Fever, Chills, sweating, Night Sweats, Fatigue, Muscle Aches
Constitutional
Head & Neck:
Neck
 Eye redness/discharge/itching.
 Ear Pain/discharge/ Fullness/ ringing.
Neurological:
Neurological Headache, Numbness, Weakness, Spinning, pass out, Fall out, Head
Trauma (Hurting your head?).
Chest & Heart:
Heart SOB, Cough, Chest Pain, Heart racing (Palpitation).
GIT
GIT: Nausea, Vomiting, Changes of Bowel Habits, Belly Pain, Blood in Stool
Urinary:
(BPH IS Continuous FUN)
Urinary

Burning urination any Blood noticed

Painful urination (Dysuria)

Hesitancy (Do you have to wait for a while before you can start urinating?)

Incontinence (Unintentional Dribbling of urine) / Incomplete Emptying of Bladder.

Straining urination/ Stream ( Weak or Normal)

Continuous or intermittent Stream ( Dribbling on intentional urination)

Frequent urination (Polyuria)

Urgency (Do you have to rush sometimes to the restroom to urinate?)

Nocturia (Do you wake up at night to urinate?).

 Seizures: is there any shaking? During the LOC was there any dribbling of urine, Tongue
biting & Confusion after regaining consciousness.
 APPETITE: Is there any change in appetite?
 WEIGHT: Is there any weight changes?
 DISCHANGE:
DISCHANGE as vomit/diahria/constipation / cough.

Amount: Can you estimate roughly the amount of---? A cupful/teaspoon / table spoon

Blood: Have you noticed any blood in it?

Color: What color was vomit/Discharge/Stool?

Consistency: what is the consistency? Is it watery, fatty or bloody?

Odor: Did you notice any unusual smell?

 Now you need to summarize what you get from the patient briefly.
 Always should use the transition statement between each section in the history:
Example, I am going now to ask you some Qs about your health in the past? Is that okay with you.

Past Hx (PAM-HS-FOSS)
Previous episode: - Did you have any similar episode in the past?
- What other medical problems do you have? HTN/DM/stroke.
Allergy: Do you have any kind of allergy?
Medications: Have you taken any Medications?
Hospitalization: Have you ever been Hospitalize? Or have you had any Surgeries?
Sleep: What about your sleep?
Family Hx:
 Does anybody in your family have similar medical problem?
 Do they have any medical disease?
OBGYN Hx:

If Menopausal: just ask about the LMP and move on.

If CBP:
1. When was your 1st period?
2. When was your last period?
3. Do you have any problems related to your menstrual periods?
4. Are they regular?
5. How often do you have your period? / What is the length of you cycles?
6. How long do they last?
7. How many pads do you use on a heavy day?
8. Do you have any pain during your period?
9. Do you have any spotting in between your periods?
10. Do you notice any mood changes?
11. Do you have any discharge from the vagina?
12. When was your last pap smear? How was it?
13. Do you have any pain during sex? Any vaginal dryness?

14. Do you feel you could be pregnant?

15. Have you ever been pregnant, Abortions/stillbirths?

Social Hx (SAD+STEPl)
MR/smith Now Im going to ask a something very personal! But I assure you, All the information
will be kept confidential.

Do you smoke? How many packs /day? How long have you been smoking?
Do you drink alcohol? Who much do you drink? What type?
if you suspect that this is an alcoholic, just ask her how much you can drink every time? Then
proceed to:

Have you ever thought to cut down on your drinking?

Have you ever felt annoyed by criticism of your drinking habit?

Have you ever felt guilty about your drinking habit?

Have you ever taken a drink first in the morning as an eye opener?

Have you ever use recreational drugs? How do you take it? How frequently do you take it?
when was the last time?
Is there anyone in close contact have the similar condition?
Have you traveled recently?
Do you exercise regularly? Do you feel decrease of your energy?
Do you have any cats or dogs in your home?
Is there any change in your libido?

Sexual Hx
Are you sexually active? How many partners do you have? Male/female or both? Are you using
condom? Have you ever diagnosed with STDs? (councel, okay ms.your sexual practice put you at
risk of contracting a STD including HIV, every time you doing sex you should insist that your
partner use condom. I recommend you to do HIV test? But we will need your permission? What do
you use for contraception?
Counsel:

The reason, why Im asking you this, because smoking/ drinking of excessive alcohol/ taking drugs
puts you at a higher risk to develop many diseases. So being a concerned physician I must advice
you to either limit its quantity or ideally quit it absolutely. Do you have any plan to quit?
(Yes) excellent! (No) I understand the old habit die hard and it is very difficult to quit it
suddenly. In case if make up your mind in future, we have got a very well developed support
program. Please feel free to contact me anytime if you need any help-Id feel happy to help you in
this regard.
Summarize:

Just to summarize your history .

Is there anything youd like to tell me or add before I start your physical.

Closure
-

All right, Mr._____, thank you for your kind co-operation. First of all, let me summarize.
As you told me that you have.is that right?

According to the information I got from you and from the examination, I am considering
the possibilities like you may have.. But to confirm the diagnosis, I need to run some tests
like blood test and scanning of your________ . As soon as I get the results, we will meet
again. And at that time I will explain you in the details and we will also discuss the
treatment options. ok? ----

Have you understand what we discussed today? Do you have any questions for me? No- If
you have any question later on, you can call me at any time. Ok, Mr._____It was nice to
meet you. Bye. Take care. (shake the hand with smile and leave the room )
Wrapping up or counseling is MUSTMUST-Never leave the room without it!
IF You didnt finish Questions or PE-proceed to wrapping up: Ive got an emergency call on
my pager and Ive to leave within a few minutes. Ill get back to you as soon as I return
back. However, before leaving Id like to summarize my findings so ar(Then start
counseling)!

How to deal with a silent patient?

Responding nothing or simply yes or no!

Be unhurried and respectful

Im glad you came to see me today. It appears you are not in good mood or you appear upset
today. Is there anything I can do for you- to make you more comfortable?
It is important for me to know how you are feeling and what are the things worrying you.
Im your doctor and Im here to help you. Okay? Tell me how can I help you?
Lets do our best to understand each other Id like to know more about your feelings and
problems. Would you please share more about it

How to deal with a talkative patient?

Talking too much irrelevant!
Im eager to hear about you! But I feel that you are not getting to the facts that I need
most now. Could you please tell me more about your complain.
I appreciate that you kept such a careful track of yours..but I feel that at present we
should concentrate more about . (CC)

Any pediatric case

FEVER IN 1Y OLD CHILD
Analysis of the chief complaint (FEVER
(FEVER)
FEVER): When did it start? Did you measure it? What was
the reading? Any associated chills/night sweats?

Follow review of system:

system:
Constitutional: fever, activity, irritable, responding/drowsy?Any depression over the head?
Ears: Did you notice any ear discharge? Did you notice your child always pulling his ear?
Eyes: Did you notice eye redness or yellow/tearing? Any sunken eyes?
Mouth:

Is there any bluish coloration of lip, any redness in the mouth, ulcers, patches, drooling?

Any dryness/pallor? What about his crying?

Is there any difficulty in swallowing or chocking/regurgitation / any vomiting?

Nose: Is there any cold symptom, rhinorrhea (runny nose), hoarseness? Any noisy breathe?
Chest: Is there any cough? Any braking sounds? Brings up any phlegm? if yes, ABCO.
ABDOMIN:
Urinary symptoms: how many diapers of urine changed/day? if < 6 is worrisome of
dehydration.
Bowel symptoms: how many diapers of stool changed/day? For Diarrhea, constipation.
Shaking, Skin Rashes?

PAMHSPAMHS-Foss:
Has your child had any past serious illness?
Does your child have any type of allergy?
Do you give your child any recent medications?
Is there any Hospitalization before? Have had any surgery?
Is there any sick contact at home? Sleep? Social Hx of MOM (SAD)?
Is there any medical problem in the child`s family?

BIG DEAL
Birth history: Any complications during pregnancy/ Full term or preterm? NVD/CS? Any
complications during or after delivery? Did you child needed to be incubated?
Is your child`s immunizations up to date?
Growth: what about his growth is it normal? Or did you notice nay delay?
Are you taking your child to a day care center? Ill contact?
Eating: can you tell me about your child eating? Do you feed your child from breast or bottle?
How is your child`s appetite?
When was the last routine check up? Was everything Ok.?
Counseling
Explain the D.D (fever due to infection of respiratory tract or ear or both, could be due to urinary tract infection,
seizure is benign and due to fever)
Explain the importance of child being here.

Explain further work up (Blood tests, urinalysis, stool test)

Meanwhile advise her to give fluids and antipyretics

D.D:
- Otitis Media.
- Meningitis
- Scarlet fever
- 5th disease
- Varicella.
Investigations
CBC with differential count and ESR
Urinalysis
Ear examination
Fundoscopy
Lumbar puncture
Sickle cell scrapings.
Varicella antibody titer.







In a pediatric phone case of fever we may use CITRUS in modified way:

Chest problem/Cough/Pain
Insect Bite/Ill contact.
Travel /Rash/ Ulcers in mouth
Stiffness in any limb? (Septic arthritis?)

29 Yr. O/F known sickle cell anemia pt c/o chest pain

Manage as pain case & add:
Ask about the factors that precipitate SK.C. Crisis: dehydration, diarrhea, fever.
H/o hematuria
H/o blood transfusion
H/o Blood clot formation (Personal and family)
Examination
Inspection of chest (redness and swelling)
Palpation of area (minimal attempt to disturb the patient, did not put stethoscope in the
area of tenderness)
examine fingers and calf.
examine abdomen.
Counseling
Explain the physical findings and diagnosis & work up (blood tests + CXR)
Explain the complications of disease (infections, hypoxia can precipitate the pain) and
manner of genetic transmission
Contact your doctor immediately if you have fever or breathing trouble.
Explain might have to take preventive vaccinations for H. influenzae (Flu shot every year).
Offer pain medications for time being.
Explain the importance of avoiding hypoxemia and maintaining hydration (8 glass of water).

Newly diagnosed case of Diabetes in a child

When did it diagnose? How was it diagnosed? Which type of DM?
Presenting symptoms?
Is he taking any medication/Insulin? (Yes Insulin)
Tell me about the site of insulin injections? (Thigh: early peak and early fall, chances of
hypoglycemia. Abdomen: Preferred) - Whos the injector?
Is he compliant with the Insulin or taking it regularly?
Is there any side effect of Insulin?
Are you measuring blood glucose regularly at your home?
When did you measure his blood glucose last time? What was the level?
What is his weight and height? How is his growth in whole?
Is he following any specific diet? Would you please tell me more about his diet schedule?
Does he play? How many hours? At what time? What does he play?
DM Associated symptoms:

How it has affected the family and child?

Does he feel any fatigue? Or Depressed? Is he irritable?

Does he have any problem with vision like blurring of vision?

Does he have any abnormal thirst or extreme hunger?

Has he lost some weight in recent past?

Did he vomit before? Does he have any pain in his belly?

Does he have any problems with his bowel movement? Any problems with his urination?

Does he ever have any hypoglycemia, passed out?

Does he have any tingling or numbness in limbs?

Does he have frequent infections of skin or gums? Or itchy skin? Any skin lesion?
 PAMHSF

Has he ever been diagnosed with any medical illness before?

Does he have any allergies?

Is he taking any medications?

Has he ever been hospitalized?

Does he have any problem with sleeping?

Then ask Milestones questions (I use IDIOT mnemonic)
 Councel
Mrs. Xxxx, First let me summarize what you have just told me. You said ... Is that right? yes
Mrs. Xxxx , I understand how you might be feeling after the diagnosis of diabetes in your child. Parents are

not the only ones affected by a child's diabetes. Everyone in the whole family is affected. The dynamics of the
entire family undergo changes.
Be reassuring:
reassuring You need to stress that the disease can be managed, whether it's through diet
and exercise or medication. You might tell them that diabetes is a serious disease and our life is
going to be a little different now. You can emphasize that diabetes can be managed more
precisely than in the old days.

 Be helpful. Provide him written materials I will print out handouts that might answer your Questions when
they come up or you can also buy books about diabetes and how to manage it.
Be firm: Be sure that the extended family understands the seriousness of the disease and the importance of

blood-glucose monitoring, carbohydrate counting, and insulin injections.

If he is on insulin, it's crucial that you know what to do in case of a low-sugar emergency. You should know
that how to recognize hypoglycemia (when you may seem confused, disoriented, or faint) and should also teach
your child. You should also know what to give him under such situation and whom to call for help?
You may always keep an emergency kit along with child with snacks and juices for such emergencies. You
should also inform about it to the teachers and authorities in school.
Hope you understood whatever we discussed today?
Do you have any concern or question?
Alright then, I will see you once you get to the hospital. Take care.

Fatigue
 Step-1: Follow the principle of OPD FC AAA
 Step-2: Follow Head to toe history in a modified manner.

Headache/Lightheadedness.

Loss of consciousness.

Neck (or other parts) glands.

Do you snore?

Chest pain SOB or cough.

Pain anywhere in tummy.

Problem with urination or bowel changes

Any weight change /appetite.
 Step-3: Ask hypothyroid history:

Cold intolerance.

Depression (how is your mood).

Hair fall

Voice.
 Step-4: Ask about depression FACE SLIPS+ see or hear anything.
Do you hold any idea that others want to control you or harm you?
 Step-5: Ask about probable Cancer/Bleeding (Anemia)

Do you have black stools? Or passed blood in your stool?

Have you ever vomited blood?

Do you find any difficulty in swallowing food?
 Step-6: PAMHSFOSS
Examination:
Examine mucous membranes for pallor
Palpate neck for mass or swelling
Check memory, orientation and judgment
Counseling:

Explain physical findings and probable diagnosis & work up

Offer to talk to the Pt. family
Offer to help and support while getting treated
Explain the importance of quitting smoking in long term and offered help

DD:
PTSD
Anemia
Chronic fatigue syndrome
Depression
Occult medical disease
Investigation:
CBC
Peripheral smear
Thyroid function tests
Serum electrolytes

RASH
-

Have you noticed any rash in your body?

Tell me more about your rash?
Who long have you been in this?
Does it start suddenly or gradually?
Does it getting worse or better?
Is there is any aggravating factors?
Is there is any relieving factors?
Where is exactly the rash?
Was is initially flat or raised?
Have it change to new character?
Have there any new areas had involved?
Is it associated with itching, burning over the rash, any pain or numbness over the rash,
bulla formation or oozing?
Are there any breathing problems/chest pain, redness of eyes, any joint pains and fever?
In Social Hx:
- Anyone else in close contact have similar rash.
- Ask about recent travel.
- Ask about any animal contact.

Painful swollen joint (CITRUS-HPT)

Manage the case as usual pain case and add: LIQORAA + FOLLOWING:
 ANALYSIS OF THE CHIEF C/O (JOINT PAIN):
Is there any recent trauma? Insect pit? Recent travel?
Can you work using this joint?
Is there any swelling, redness, stiffness? When? How long it last?

Is there any other joint affected?

 Review of system:
Is there any headache, fever?
Is there any visual problem? Weakness in the face?
Do you have any ulcers in your mouth? Is there any difficulty in swallowing?
Is there any flue like illness, SOB, cough?
Do you have any urinary problems? Any discharge from the penis? Vagina?
Is there any history of rash? Any numbness or loss of sensation?
IS there any weakness or shaking?
Did you notice any Change in your skin on sun exposure? (PHOTOSENSETIVITY)
Examination:
Check knee for full range of motion OR effusion by ballottement or bulge method.
Check all other joints for selling and redness (joint above and joint below)
Examine sensation motor and DTRs + Peripheral pulses.
Auscultate lungs and heart.
DD:
Inflammatory osteoarthritis
Septic arthritis
Pseudo gout
Mono-articular rheumatoid arthritis
Gout
Investigation:
CBC with differential, ESR
Urinalysis
Joint aspiration
Knee X-ray
ANA, Rheumatic Factor
Additional:
MRI of joint for history of trauma
Lyme titers for H/O tick bite and travel to Lyme endemic areas (New England etc)
Important points:

Trauma to knee Hx:

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

Ask what was he doing at the time the pain began.

Ask are there any noises heard at the time of injury (Popping sound indicates anterior
cruciate ligament injury)
Ask whether the knee was buckling or unstable.
Ask about locking and unlocking of joint ( For meniscal injury)
Perform Drawers test for cruciate ligament injury.
Perform McMurray's maneuver.
In the counseling explain that he needs immediate orthopedics consultation for possible
meniscal or ligamental injury.

Evaluation of OA (OPDFAAA + DPS W)

How long have you been having the osteoarthritis?
How is it progressing?
Do you know any specific situation where you feel more pain?
Is there anything which makes the pain better or worse?
Have you noticed any stiffness? When it is seen most of the time? How long did it last?
Is it on both sides? Which side is worse?
Do you consistently feel pain?
Do you feel pain during sleep or resting state? (So advanced stage)
Have you noticed any cracking sound during movement?
Have you noticed any muscular weakness around knee?
Describe your usual activities and exercise routine?
What treatment are you taking for it?
Did you have any injury of knees anytime?
Do you have similar pain anywhere else like hip?
Do you feel pain down your calf or leg?
Did you have any rash or fever in the recent past?
When did you have your last menstrual period/ when did you have your menopause?
Are you taking vit-D and calcium?
Have you ever tried HRT?
Counseling:
As you know it is a problem of aging and related to wear & tear of joint. The pillars of
management are regular exercise, weight reduction and regular pain killer to relieve pain.
We may also try heat and cold therapies, joint protection techniques, and surgery or joint
replacement in advanced cases.
Regular exercise can help manage pain it act by strengthening muscles around joints,
increasing energy, improving sleep, controlling weight and strengthening the heart. You may
also try local massage with oils and anti-inflammatory ointments.

COUGH
-

Do you have cough? Tell more about your cough?

Does it start sudden or gradual?
How long have you been in this?
Does it getting worse or better?
Does it constant or comes and go?
Did you bring up anything with cough? If yes: go for ABCO.
What is alleviating /what is aggravating?
Is there is any association with fever, chest pain, chills, night sweet, wt loss, difficulty
with breathing? Noisy sounds?
Did you notice any relation to a certain season?

CHEST PAIN (elderly)

Manage as any pain case do not forget to ask about weither the pt regulary check his BP and Lipid
profile and ask what was the last readings? Also ask if he regularly exercise or not, congratulate
him about that.
Examination
Examinee washed hands
Performed eye examination with ophthalmoscope
Looked for J.V.D
Palpated for P.M.I
Listened my heart
Auscultated all over the lungs
Examined without gown not through the gown.
Counseling
Explained the physical findings and diagnosis
Explained further work up [Blood tests, chest X Ray, ECG, cardiac enzymes, angiogram]
Explained the importance of lifestyle modifications by quitting smoking , alcohol and
exercise program

Sore throat
When did it start? How long have you been in this? Does it getting worse or better?
Is there is any fever, cough, chest pain, joint pain/rashes, do u notice any glands in your
neck, is there any rashes? pain over sinus areas? nasal discharge?
Is there is any abdominal pains, did you notice any change in your eyes color?

Ask about bleeding tendencies

Ask about contacts with ill persons.
Examination
Looked inside mouth.
Palpate for enlarged neck glands
Palpate for spleen (they act like they are having some discomfort when you press your hand
for spleen, so everyone must do this test for this case) and liver
Palpated abdomen gently and deeply
Auscultated heart.
Counseling
Explain the physical findings and diagnosis
Explain further work up (Blood tests, Throat swab, Monospot test)

Shortness of breath (elderly)

-

When did it start?

When did u get SOB, while walking, climbing up stairs? Or at rest?
Is there is anything that may aggravate it/ or alleviate it?
Is there is nocturnal attacks, what do you do to relieve it?

Is there is any swelling in your feet, chest pain, cough, racing of your heart, fainting
attacks or dizzy?
- Have you checked your cholesterol regularly? What was the last result?
Examination
Perform eye examination with ophthalmoscope
Look for JVD
Palpate for PMI
Auscultat all over the heart and lungs
Percuss for liver span.
Check for pedal edema.
Check peripheral pulses
Counseling
Explain the physical findings and diagnosis
Explain further work up (Blood tests, chest x ray, EKG and Echocardiogram)
Explain the importance of lifestyle modifications by quitting smoking, alcohol, exercise
program and dietary modification it decrease hyperlipidemia.
-

LEG CRAMPS (DVT)

LIQRAAA (association: hair loss, sensory changes, weakness, color changes, unilateral swelling,
chest pain, back pain).
Examination
Examine calf tenderness.
Elicit Homan's sign.
Check pulses in both legs and arms.
Check sensation in both legs.
Check reflexes in both the legs.
Counseling
Explain the physical findings and diagnosis
Explain further work up [Blood tests, duplex ultrasound, x ray of the spine, blood sugar]
Explain the importance of lifestyle modifications by quitting smoking, alcohol and
importance regular exercise and strict diabetic control]
D.D for this Case
Thromboangitis Obliterans
Atherosclerotic vascular disease
Lumbar spinal stenosis
Diabetic Polyneuropathy
Deep vein thrombosis
Investigations
CBC with differential count
Duplex ultrasound of lower limbs
X- ray of spine
Blood sugar

Lipid profile
Angiography.

ABDOMENAL PAIN
Tell me more about your pain?
How long have you been in this?
Does it start suddenly or gradually?
Does it get worse or better?
Tell me exactly where is your pain?
From 1 to 10, how could you scale your pain?
How does it feel like?
Does it move anywhere?
Did you notice anything that may aggravate it or may alleviate it?
Is there any associated fever, chills, vaginal discharge? What is your LMP?
Is your pain related to any kind of food? Is it increase by eating or after a while of eating?
Is there any associated vomiting, jaundice, change in bowel movement or color of stool?
Have you notice any change in caliber of stool? Any blood in it?
Is there is any change in weight or appetite?
Did you notice any glands anywhere in your body?
Examination
Auscultate abdomen prior to palpation
Palpate abdomen superficially
Palpate abdomen deeply
Checke rebound tenderness
Looked for CVA tenderness
Percuss for liver span
Performed Psoas sign and Obturator sign
Counseling
Explain the physical findings and diagnosis
Explain further work up (Blood tests, ultrasound, abdomen x ray)
Explain the importance of lifestyle modifications by quitting smoking, alcohol.
D.D for this Case
Appendicitis
Meckel's diverticulitis
Perforated Peptic Ulcer
Intestinal Obstruction
Pancreatitis
Urolithiasis
PID
Investigations
CBC with Differential Count
Abdomen X-Ray
Ultrasound Abdomen

Pancreatic Enzymes
Upper G.I Endoscopy

JAUNDICE

When did it start? Does it getting better or worse?

How long have u had this jaundice?
Did u notice any factors that alleviate / or aggravate it?
Are there any changes in the color of stools and urine?
Is there any associated itching, abdominal pain, fever with chills?
Do you feel tired?
Do you have any blood transfusion?

GIT cases: ask always on relation to type of food, bowel movement changes, change in

color of the stool, notice in blood in stool, vomiting any blood, change in caliber of the stool,
any loss of weight or change in appetite.
Do you have any bleeding tendencies?
Did you notice any enlarged glands?
Have you traveled recently?
Examination: examine the abdomen as usual.
D.D for this Case
Infectious hepatitis
Alcoholic hepatitis
Drug induced hepatitis
Primary biliary cirrhosis
Malignancy
Investigations
CBC with differential
Urine for bile salts
Anti mitochondrial antibodies
LFTs
Hepatitis screen

Diaharea

How long have you had this diarrhea?

Does it getting better or worse?
Is there is any causing factors?
Did you notice any factors that increase it / decrease it?
Can you estimate roughly the amount?
What does it contain/whats it color/what does it look like watery /fatty? Is it smell bad?
Is there is any blood or mucus in it?
Is it associated with pain? Vomiting? Fever? Rashes?
Do u feel every time that u didnt complete the evacuation? (Tenesmus)
Have you traveled recently?

Do u remember that you exposed to any pet or pet droppings?

Is there is any urinary problems?
Examination

abdomen examination + Examination of skin for any rashes (face)

Examination of oral cavity
Respiratory examination
Cardiac auscultation
Counseling
Explain the physical findings and diagnosis (infective diarrhea, like similar in past or due to
some different organism).

Explain further work up (Blood tests, stool examination) explained the importance of safe
sexual practices and use of condoms.
Ask to perform rectal examination
Advise to take increased fluids.
D.D for this Case
Gastroenteritis
Giardiasis
Iso-spora infection
Drug induced diarrhea
Investigations
CBC with differential count
Stool for culture and sensitivity
Stool examination for cyst and ova
CD 4 count
P24 load

Constipation
How long have you been in this? Does it getting worse or better?
Is it complete or partial?
Can you estimate roughly the amount of stool passed?
What is the consistency of stool?
Did u notice any blood in it?
Do you feel urge to defecate?
Do you feel after the evacuation that u didnt complete it? tenesmus
Is there any associated pain? Vomiting? Abd. Pains? Fever? Jaundice?
Is there is any swellings in your neck?
Is there is an episodes of diarrhea in-between?
Is there any urinary problem?
Do you feel depressed, fatigue and loss of interest in life?
Do you have thyroid problems, or do u have cold intolerance, weight.
Examination: abdomen
Counseling

Explain the physical findings and diagnosis (functional constipation, due to colon disease
(could be due to colon cancer, hypothyroidism)
Explain further work up (Blood tests, Stool examination, and Colonoscopy)
Ask to perform rectal examination.
D.D for this Case
Functional constipation
Carcinoma of colon
Hypothyroidism
Diabetic autonomic neuropathy
Bowel obstruction
Investigations
CBC with differential
Rectal examination and Stool for occult blood
Colonoscopy
Thyroid screen
Blood sugar and Hb A1c

Difficulty in swallow
Ask about onset, intensity, location? Progression?
Do you have difficulty to swallow solid foods or liquids? Which started first?
Is there any relieving factors or any aggravating factors?
Is there any vomiting or nausea, pain, fever or change in urinary or bowel habits?
Have you had heartburn?
Do you notice any change in voice?
Have you ever had accidental corrosive swallow before?
Do you have any difficulty in breathing?
Do you notice any swelling or masses in neck?
Do you notice any changes in skin or nails (scleroderma)?
Examination:
Palpate neck for swelling
Examine mouth and throat
Give the Pt water and ask him to swallow.
Palpate axilla and above clavicles.
Examine the abdomen.
Ascultate lungs & heart.
Counseling:
Explain about physical findings & possible diagnosis
Explain further work up
Explain probable modalities of treatment
Explain importance of quitting smoking
Offer help in trying to quit smoking
Offer continuous support during treatment

D.D:
Cancer esophagus
Achalasia cardia
Reflux esophagitis
Scleroderma
Investigations:

CBC

Barium swallow

Esophagoscopy

Chest X-Ray

Rheumatoid factor and Scl antibodies

ANC(1st BOOKING)
What is your LMP? Calculate GA, if it wasnt given.
How do you know about your pregnancy?
Obstetrical history.
Menstrual history (Menarche, regular periods)
D you know your Rh type of your blood, have you taken any blood before?
Contraception history before getting pregnant.
Is there is any problems of pregnancy (vomiting, fever, abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding)
Past History: as usual PAMHUGS - FOSS but add
Ask about history of exposure to cats.
Ask about rubella immunization in the past.
Ask about families health ( Congenital/ birth problem in the family )
Examination
Examine my eyes ( for pallor )
Examine Oral cavity (For general hygiene )
Examine Legs (for edema & varicose veins )
Auscultate Heart and Lungs
Examine and Auscultate abdomen ( If less than 28 weeks just do Fundal grip; If more than
28 weeks do all the Leopolds maneuvers)
Measure the BP.
Counseling
Explain the findings and further work up ( Blood for Hb, TORCH screen, HIV ( took the
consent) , Hepatitis Screen, U/A, abdominal Sonogram )
Advise to stop usage of tobacco and alcohol consumption.
Advise for safe sexual practices.
Explain the need for vitamins, Iron supplementations and nutritious diet.
Explain the importance of avoiding sick contact (if Rubella ve titre)
Explain the importance of regular ANC visits.
Investigations
CBC with differential count, Blood grouping and typing.

Urine Analysis.
Ultrasound of Abdomen
TORCH Screening
Hepatitis B Screening
HIV Screening

Amenorrhea
When was that? When was your LMP?
Do you have a period every month? How many days it last?
How many pads do you use every time?

When was your 1st period?

Do you have any associated pain?
Do you have any bleeding in between the period?
Do u experienced problems with PMS? Feel some nervous?
Do you use any kind of contraception?
Asked about sexual practices
Do you notice any loss of weight, change in the appetite?
Have you ever got any fever for long duration?
Are there any swellings or masses in neck?
Asked about any urinary problems or bowel changes?
Do you feel depressed or lonely?
Do you suffer any decrease in your performance at school?
Do u have a nice family? (Family support)
Examination:
Examine the abdomen
Palpate neck for masses, Ask SP to swallow.
Examine eye movements.
Examine hands for tremor.
Auscultate heart & lungs
Counseling:
Explain physical findings and probable diagnosis
Explain further work up
Ask to perform P/V
Explain about treatment
Ask about family support
Offer support
Psychiatric counseling for depression
DD:
Pregnancy
Anorexia nervosa
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperprolactinemia
Hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian problems

Investigation:
Pregnancy test and pelvic examination
CBC
Urinalysis
USG abdomen
Thyroid function tests and serum prolactin

DIFICULTY IN MICTURATION
HPI:
Does it start suddenly or gradual? How long have you been in this? Does it getting better
or getting worse? How frequent do you need to urinate? What about night?
If I asked you about the flow of your urine, is it continuous or interrupted? Do you notice
any blood in it? When at the beginning or last or all through your urination?
How difficult is it initiating or maintaining the flow?
Do you feel rush to urinate, burning sensation, fever or chills?
Have you got any trauma to spine? Or accidents?
Is there any weakness in legs?
Is there any change in bowel movements?
Are you taking any recent medicines?
Examination:
Auscultate abdomen
Palpate abdomen  Suprapubic area (superficial and deep)
Palpate back (costovertebral angle)
Test reflexes in legs
Ask to perform rectal examination
Counseling:
Explain physical findings and probable diagnosis & the work up
Explain the importance of rectal examination
Explain how the beer intake may increase the frequency
DD:
Benign Prostatic hyperplasia
Prostatic carcinoma
Stone in urinary tract
Infection
Sphincter dysfunction
Investigations:
Per rectal examination
CBC
Urinalysis
Renal function tests and IVP
Prostate specific antigen (PSA)

INCREASED URINATION

Does it start suddenly or gradual?

How often you go to urinate every day and night?
What about the volume, can you roughly estimate it?
Is there any burning with micturation, urgency or hesitancy?
Is there associated thirst?
Do you drink a lot of water or eat a lot recently??
Is there is any weight changes?
Do you have any history of head trauma? Any lung complains before?
Do you have any psychiatric problems?
Do you have any of (heat/cold intolerance, hair loss, constipation/diarrhea)? (thyroid)
Examination
Palpate thyroid
Auscultate heart
Test muscle power in both upper and lower limbs
Test sensations in both upper and lower limbs
Test reflexes in both upper and lower limbs
Test for CVA tenderness
Test visual fields and examined fundus
Counseling
Explain the diagnosis, physical findings& work up (Blood tests, blood sugar, thyroid profile)
Explain the importance of lifestyle modifications and exercise program
D.D for this Case
D. Mellitus
Hyperthyroidism
Diabetes Insipidus
Psychogenic Polydypsia
Investigation
CBC and differentials
Screening blood Sugar
Urinalysis
Thyroid profile
Serum electrolytes

Confusion
ask about daily activities which are:
Do you need any help getting dressed?
Do you need any help feeding yourself?
Do you need any help going to the toilet?
Do you need any help cleaning your house?
Do you need any help shopping?
Do you need any help bathing?
Do you need any help accounting?

Do you need any help preparing food?

Do you need any help getting up from a chair to bed?
Does anyone help u with these activities?

Depression (FACE SLIPS)

Do you feel guilty about anything?

Has your appetite/weight changed lately?
Do you have difficulty concentrating?
How is your energy level? Do you ever have elated feeling of well-being?
Do you have any problems falling asleep/staying a sleep/waking up early in morning?
Do you experienced any decrease in your libido? Or loneliness
Do you take interest in daily activities?
Can you still perform your daily functions or activities?
Suicide: Have you ever thought about hurting yourself? Ok what is this plan?

Hallucinations/Psychosis
Just like a case of depression & add:
When did hallucinations 1st appear?
Would you plz tell me more about it? What are these voices telling you?
Was it sudden in onset?
How long have you been having this problem?
How frequent does it occur?
Do you see something? Feel something or being touched? Bugs crawling on body?
Do you feel as if other people are trying to harm or control you?
Are you taking any illegal drugs?
If yes: How long have you been taking this? How frequent? have you ever taken IV drugs also? Do you know your
HIV status?

Have you had any recent stressful event in your family or work?

Have you ever been diagnosed with mental illness?

Would you like to meet with a counselor to help u with your problem?

PANIC ATTACK (Breathlessness & anxiety)

When did it start? Suddenly or gradually? How long did it last?

How long have u been in this?
Is there is any noticed trigger? What may increase/decrease it?
Are there any other associated respiratory symptoms? chest pain?
Are there feelings of fright, fear of death?
Is there any palpitations, dizziness, sweating?
Did this make you take any restriction of activities?
Did you notice any recent trembling of hands?
Is there any family stress, have u had a good supporting family?
Did you notice any swelling or mass in the neck?

Is there any change in menstrual periods noticed?

Have you had hot flashes?
Asked about occupation?
Examination:
Palpate neck for swelling
Look at hands for tremor
Auscultate heart & lungs
Counseling:
Explain about probably diagnosis & workup
Explain about relaxation techniques
Explain about treatment
Advise not to limit his activities
Explain about the importance of family support.
DD:
Panic disorder
Anxiety
Hypochondriasis
Hyperthyroidism
Approaching menopause
Investigation:
CBC
Thyroid function tests
Urinalysis
Serum LH, FSH
NB. IN EPIGASTIC PAIN CASE, handle it normaly any any case of pain but in examination of
abdomen dont forget to palpate the axilla and supraclavicular LN.

Insomnia
History:
Since when you have this problem?
How many hours do you use to sleep?
Do you have any difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep?

Is there any nightmares?

Ask about any recent traumatic events
Ask if having feeling of guilt, lonely or depressed
Ask if feeling anxious about any thing
Ask if having any associated palpitation, sweating or dizziness
Ask if I have pain anywhere in the body
Ask about having any fears
Ask about suicidal intentions, and plans
Ask about daily activities
Ask about any medication use
Ask about illicit drug use

Ask about appetite and weight

Ask about family support
Ask about family problems
Examination:
You do not require MMS examination for depression unless it is associated with memory
problems
Palpate neck for masses or swellings
Test reflexes and muscle strength
Auscultate my heart and lungs
Palpate abdomen superficially and deeply
Test for lymph nodes enlargement
Counseling:
Explain the findings and probable diagnosis and the workup.
Explain the importance of keeping to a particular sleep schedule
Explain the importance of quitting smoking and offer help.
Explain about treatment and side effects.
DD:
Depression
Anxiety disorder
Drug induced
Hypothyroidism
Occult medical illness (ca. pancreas)
Investigation:
CBC
Thyroid function tests
Urinalysis
B12 level
Upper G.I endoscopy and ultrasound abdomen

PASSING OUT (ELDERLY)

When this happened? Is this the 1st time? How often do you have it? How long it last?
Tell me more about you passing out: what happened before you pass out? Was there any
witness describe to you what happened during it? Do you remember what happened after it?
Is there any shaking? Did you bit your tongue? Have you passed any urine or stool?
Do you have headache? Do you have any problems with memory or calculations?
Is there any head trauma? Any associated limbs weakness.
Do you feel dizzy when you stand suddenly?
Is there any recently add or change in you drugs?
Examination: CNS
D.D.:
.:
Convulsive syncope
Vasovagal syncope.

Cardiac arrhythmia
Drug induced othostatic hypotension
Seizure
AS.

FREQUENT FALL (in elderly)

HPI
When did it start? How often you fall?
Does it getting better or worse?
Did you notice any difference in the way you walk?
Is there any injury caused with fall? Neither a head truma?
Did you lose consciousness before or after your fall?
Do you have headache/ dizziness/ speech problem, problem with memory or calculation?
Don you have /nausea or vomiting/ fever/ chest pain/SOB any racing in your heart?
Do you get tremors, I mean any shaking of your hands? Does it improved by alcohol?
Also, are there any urinary problems or bowel problems?

Inquire about ADLs  (active daily living): Dressing, Eating, moving about, Toileting.
Ask about IADLs (Instrumental activities of daily living): Shopping, housekeeping,
accounting, food preparation, transportation-driving.
Could you tell me about your living conditions briefly? Do you have any one to help you?
Is there any heat intolerance, voice change, hair loss (thyroid).
Are you feel sadness and loneliness? Have you ever felt like ending your life?
Examination
Examine eyes & neck
Examine heart and lungs
Examine MMS.
Examine touch, pain and temperature sensations in legs and hands
Test muscle power in limbs: rigidity, reflexes.
Ask me to get up and walk and turn around and sit again
Do finger nose test
Do alternating movements test
Do Romberg's test
Check jerks in limbs including planters.

Would you plz move your arms. (to see if the tremor disappeared with movement)
Counseling
Explain the physical findings and diagnosis
Explain further work up [Blood tests, blood sugar, MRI] .
D.D for this Case
Cerebellar disease [Alcoholic/Tumor]
Parkinsons disease (idiopathic/drug induced)
Diabetic neuropathy [Sensory ataxia]
Brain tumors
Hyperthyroidism

Investigations
CBC with differential
CT or MRI [ posterior Fossa]
Serum electrolytes
TSH, T3, and T4.
ECG

A 50 year-old man with blurred vision

HPI

When did it start? Does it start suddenly or gradually? Does it getting better or worse?
Does it constant or comes & goes?
Is there is anything that may aggravate it or alleviate it?
Do you have any H/O fits, loss of consciousness, complete loss of vision, eye problems and
high blood pressure?
Do you experiencing any thirst lately?
Do you eating more than you usually do over the past few months?
Is there is any change of weight?
Do you have problems attaining and maintaining erections while having sex?
Do you have problems while walking? You feel pain while walking.
Is there is any numbness and tingling in a glove and stocking distribution?
Is there any associated headache or nauseating? When was that?

Examination
Check eyes with an ophthalmoscope
Did a focus neurological exam with special emphasis on Sensory examination of the
extremities
Test for vibration sensations on bony prominences proceeding from distal to the proximal
Listen to my carotid arteries
Do Heart exam (PMI palpation, Auscultation)
Felt for pulses in the lower limbs
Counseling
Explain the possibility of being afflicted with Diabetes
Explain the importance of weight reduction
Explain that diet would be a major part of my treatment regimen. Medications would be
secondary.
Explain the various precautions that I need to be taking to avoid injury to my feet
Show understanding of the SP problems with erectile dysfunction and discuss treatment
options.
Ask about family support systems.
Explain that regular follow-up would be necessary for my vision and other problems.
Explain that the SP can monitor his own blood sugar.
Motivate towards a better lifestyle.

Use appropriate transitions sentences while asking about sexual history (Mr. Jones. I am
now going to ask you some questions regarding your personal life. I assure you that they
will be kept confidential. Please do not feel embarrassed.)
D.D for this case
Diabetic retinopathy
Hypertensive retinopathy
Macular degeneration
Cataracts
Open angle glaucoma
Workup
CBC with differential count
Diabetic screening--Fasting blood glucose and Standard GTT
Urinalysis for microscopic proteinuria
Lipid profile
Doppler of carotids and lower limb vessels

Dizziness
HPI
When did it start? How long have you had this?
Did this related to posture? What brings it and what relieve it?
Have you ever lost consciousness?
Are there any associated symptoms: chest pain, rings in ears, dripping of urine, did you
notice any weakness in limbs?
Are you taking any drugs for BP control? From the vitals given?
Was there any recent change in medication or dosage?
Asked if there is any change in bowel or bladder habits?
Examination:
Check BP on both hands in sitting, standing and lying position.
Check motor power and sensations in all limbs
Check reflexes
Examine cranial nerves
Auscultate heart & lungs
Counseling:
Tell that you need to record BP in all limbs.
Explain physical findings and probable diagnosis.
Explain further work up & the treatment.
Explain the importance of quitting smoking and offered help
Explain the effects of medication change
Congratulate the pt for doing regular exercise and ask him to continue doing it regularly.
Explain the import of changing dietary habits (less salt).
DD:
Drug induced hypotension

Postural hypotension
TIA
Arrhythmias
Coronary artery disease
Investigations:
CBC
Doppler carotid study
Blood Glucose
Serum Electrolytes
EKG and Holter monitoring.

Loss of hearing in elderly

HPI
When this is start/ suddenly or gradually? How long have you been in this? Does it getting
better or worse?
Is there is anything that may aggravate or alleviate this proble?
Have you had any earache, fever, discharge and there is no any of these currently?
Have you any sensation of ringing in your ear?
Do you feel that the world is spinning around you?
Have you feel any episode of dizziness feeling of imbalance?
Is there a kind of exposure to a noisy environment for a long time? (work)
Do you have weakness with any of your facial muscles?
Have you had any other neurological problems like loss of sensation , numbness, tingling
anywhere in the body
Are you under any medication currently?
Examination
Check for vision & eye movements
Check for jaw muscles and sensations on the face
Ask to show his teeth & Ask to puff out cheeks
Ask close his eyes and then close one ear while checking the other ear for hearing

Do an Otoscopy by pulling back the pinna

Perform the Rinne test (AC>BC) in both ears

Perform the Weber test (Localized to the right ear)

Ask to swallow
Ask to put his tongue out and move it from side to side
Ask to shrug his shoulder.
Check position sense
Do most of the neurological exam.
Counseling
Explain the physical findings & the work up (audiometry)
Explain that I might need to wear a hearing aid.
Address the pt concerns about cosmetic problems of hearing aids and my concerns about
looking old with a hearing aid

Advise that he need to get a periodic Sigmoidoscopy and FOBT tests.

D.D.
Presbyacusis
Cerumen impaction
Ear drum damage
Infections of the ear
Otosclerosis
VIII Nerve lesions (CNS tumors)
Meniere's disease
Trauma to the ear
Drugs
Investigations
CBC & ESR
Audiometry
FOBT and sigmoidoscopy as a screening for his age
Lipid profile as a screening for his age

Seizure
HPI
When did it start? Does it start suddenly or gradually? How long did it last? How long have
you been in that?
Did you notice any trigger to this seizure? Anything make it go away?
Have you lost your conscious during the attack?
Have you Had a vague feeling of dizziness 10 min before each episode (Aura)
Tell me about the seizure was it jerking or thrashing movements of limbs?
Was there any biting of tongue? Have you passed urine or feces?
Tell me what happened after the attack, did you vomit, or did you feel any weakness in your
limbs?
Do you have or had any headache?
Have you had any recent trauma to your head?

Do you have fever? Pain in neck?

Examination:
Try to bend the pt neck
Check motor power in all limbs
Check reflexes of all the limbs
Check sensations in all limbs
Examine all the cranial nerves
Examine eyes with ophthalmoscope
Examine ears with otoscope
Auscultate heart & lungs
Counseling:
Explaine physical findings and probable diagnosis & work up
Inform the pt as to how long the treatment is necessary

Offer support to cope up with the situation

DD:
Epilepsy
Tumor
Encephalitis
Meningitis
Trauma
Investigation:
CBC and electrolytes
CT Scan of head
Lumbar puncture
Blood and urine glucose levels
Serum electrolytes

65 Yr Old Lady with arm and leg weakness

HPI
When did your weakness start/ does it start suddenly or gradually? Does it getting worse
or better? Are there any aggravating and alleviating factors?
Is it affecting the whole leg and whole arm? Which side? Are able to talk? Is there any
visual changes? Any sensory changes?
How did you feel most of the days before the weakness?
Are there any associated factors fever, chills, ear discharge, nasal discharge (sinusitis)
neck pain, vomit, jerking movement or dizziness?
Do you have problem with frequent falls?
Is there any recent trauma
Are you has a good supporting family?
Examination
Check for pulses at two places
Check cranial nerves 2-12 B/L
Test motor function B/L
Check for sensory modalities proximally and distally
Check Coordination and gait
Check balance
Do the Romberg's test
Do the tests for cerebellar functions
Check for special sensations like proprioception.
Do a cursory heart and lung exam.
Counseling
Tell to pt the probable diagnosis & tests.
Discuss smoking cessation and drug compliance.
Discuss prognosis.
Discuss home situation
Inquire if he need any help

D.D for this Case

Stroke
Evolving stroke
Transient Ischemic attack
Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Conversion disorder
Work Up
Periodic monitoring of Vitals
CBC with differentials
CT scan of the head
Doppler of the carotids
Lumbar puncture
VDRL (or) syphilis serology

BL00d PRESSURE CHECK AND REFILL

History:
Ask about onset
Ask about associated symptoms (Headache, Dizziness, Blurring of vision, chest pain,
palpitations)
Any recent aggravation in symptoms
Ask about self checking of BP regularly
Ask about diet control
Ask about exercise
Ask about occupation & related stress
Ask about stress at home
Ask about medications
Ask if using as prescribed regularly
Ask when he had my urinalysis done last
Ask about bowel and bladed habits

When you last had your cholesterol level checked?

Do you have any strokes before or DM?
Investigation:
CBC
Urinalysis
Lipid profile
EKG
Serum electrolytes

HIV AND REFILL

What is the medication you are taking?

Are you taking it regularly?
Do you have any side effects of drugs (any stomach pain, muscle weakness)?
Do you have any breathing problems (cough, SOB)?

Have ever had a fever?

Do you have headache and vomiting
Is there any eye problems?
Do you have oral ulcers or white patches?
Do you have any problems with swallowing?
Do you have any associated skin problems and rash
You dont have weakness and sensory problems in limbs
Is there any bowel problems (loose motions)
Is there any urinary problems
Do you notice any genital problems (ulcers, discharge)
Are you joiing any of the support systems, I can help you to join our system if you need?
Do you feel sadness or lonely? Any ideas to harm yourself? Do you have any plans?
Examination
Palpate abdomen gently
Auscultate lungs and heart
Examine eyes with ophthalmoscope.
Check sensory system in hands and legs
Examine oral cavity
Examine without gown not through the gown
Counseling
Explain the physical findings & further work up (Blood tests, viral titers, chest x ray)
Explain the importance of safe sexual practices and use of condoms to protect others
Explained the complications and how to deal with them
Explain the importance of vaccinations
Explain the availability of support systems
D.D for this Case
HIV refill
Depending upon case (not here - PCP, Candida infection, CMV Retinitis, esophagitis)
Investigations
CBC with differential count
CD 4 count
P24 antigen quantification.
Chest X-ray
LFTs (Zidovudine Toxicity)

65 Yr. O/M requesting pain medication

A 65 year old man have pancreatic cancer

It was diagnosed 7months ago, known to be died.
This is not the regular physician you are about to talk to
He has steadily been losing weight. Your weight is 10 pounds less than what your weight was
1 month ago
He has severe pain in your back.

He has an enlarged gall bladder as found by an USG

He has jaundice.
It is 9 on a scale of 1 to 10
It doesnt seem to go anywhere
It doesnt get better or worse with anything
He has decreased appetite. You dont feel like eating anything
His bowel habits are normal.
He cant fall asleep
He is depressed most of the time
He was a smoker and drinker before you got the cancer
He has a wife and two estranged kids.
He has been given morphine by your regular physician ,but it doesnt seem to be working
any more for the pain
He wants to die comfortably in his home.
He has accepted his fate and are not angry or denying the fact that he are dying.
He has no interest in sexual life any more.
He has no Drug allergies or for that matter any kind of allergies
History Taking [General Proforma]
Ask if pain was progressive
Ask about aggravating factors
Ask about the pain going any where
Ask about alleviating factors
Ask about associated problems
Ask about recent fevers
Ask about gastrointestinal problems.
Ask about shortness of breath or chest pain
Ask about problems with urinary tract.
Ask about diet and weight
Inquire if I had any other problems
Ask about any other problems I was having with other systems.
Ask about sexual history.
Ask about my mood. (This is very important in any terminally ill pt as well especially so in
the Pancreatic cancer)
Examination: abdomen.
Counseling
Respect my decision that I wanted to die peacefully and at home
Discuss options of hospice care and voluntary health care workers who come home.
Agree to increase the pain medication to make me feel comfortable
Ask him about advance directives like a living will.
Create an atmosphere of trust and respect.
Ask about home situation.
Ask him about the financial situation
Ask how his wife was taking the whole situation.

Pain in pancreatic carcinoma can be due to the involvement of celiac plexus.

32 yr old female with multiple bruises

Mental Checklist of DD:
Accident
Physical assault
Spousal abuse
Bleeding disorders
Collagen vascular disorders
S.P's notes:
a 30 year old woman, have a bruise on the right arm between your shoulder and the elbow
She is accompanied by her husband. When the doctor asks her how she sustained the
injury? She told that My husband told me that I fell down the stairs. On further
questioning by the doctor she said that, she has been hit by her husband. They have been
married for 7 years. Her husband is a truck driver. Her husband hits you whenever he has
his rage episodes-usually once a week. They have 2 children, a boy aged 6 and a girl-aged 5.
He doesnt hit them. He loves them but they are afraid to go near him when he has his rage
episodes. Her husband is an alcoholic and he almost always has a bottle of bourbon by his
side. Both her parents are living in the same town and neither of them is aware of the
abuse. She loves her husband, but she is always on the edge when he is around. She feels
that it is very difficult for her to leave him. She has never reported the matter to any
agency. She dont feel safe at home especially when he is around. She has felt at least on
two occasions- that he might kill her. She dont have an emergency plan to leave home if
the need arises. She dont wish the matter to be reported to the authorities. She has a
satisfying sexual relationship with him and you are monogamous. She dont smoke, drink or
use recreational drugs. There is a shotgun at her house. She thinks her husband might use
it. When the doctor persuades her that she need not endure such a relationship in which
she are always in mortal fear- she said that she are going to think about reporting it to the
social welfare agencies. If she has been persuaded enough by the doctor- take his phone
number and tell him that she are going to call him if the need arises.
HPI:
 Ask how the injuries have occurred
 Ask about any other injuries that she had
 Ask about family history of bleeding disorders
 Ask about use of any medications
 Ask about child abuse at the house
 Ask if her family was aware that she was being abused.
 Ask about his profession
 Ask about her husbands alcoholism
 Ask if this happens regularly
 Ask about how she feels about her husband & how her husband feels towards her
 Ask about her sexual relationships with her husband
 Ask if there were any weapons at her home

Ask about her feeling of safety at home

 Ask if she had an emergency plan to leave the house if the need arises.
Examination
Do not neglect the physical exam
Ask to touch the opposite shoulder
Check if she had any other injuries.
Check her arm to see if it was broken
Closure
Inform the pt that she might have a broken upper arm
Inform that you was ordering an X-ray to rule out a fracture.
Give her your office phone number and offer ongoing support.
Diagnosis: Spousal abuse
Investigations: CBC and the others depending on the type of injury


IMPOTANCE
When did it start? Does it getting worse or better? Does it comes and goes or constant?
Does there any factor increase it or any factor that may decrease it?
Would you grade your impotence on scale from 1 to 10 where 1 is flaccid and 6 is adequate
for penetration?
Do you have any problems of sexual desire? ejaculation?
Do you have any pain in the legs (claudication)
Is there any anxiety or depression?
Do you feel that u became intolerant the heat or cold wither, weight changed, any racing of
your heart?
Examination: Palpate abdomen gently & Examine pulsations in lower limbs
Counseling
Advise home glucose monitoring & Advise to strict to diabetic diet
Advise about the importance of exercise program and quitting alcohol and smoking
Advise and explain some relaxation techniques
D.D for this Case
Diabetic neuropathy
Chronic alcoholism
Anxiety
Head injury with endocrine dysfunction
Spinal cord dysfunction
Investigations
Blood sugar
Postage stamp test
X-Ray spine
MRI of brain
Rectal examination

PATEINT NOTES FORUM

History
66 yo M c/o right hand tremor for 6 months. It occurs at rest and seems to be getting worse
recently. The tremor is exacerbated by fatigue, and there are no alleviating factors (he does not
drink alcohol). Reducing his caffeine intake to 1 cup of coffee daily did not seem to help. He
denies associated symptoms but does say that his wife complains that he has slowed down since
retiring last year. Specifically, he seems to be walking more slowly recently (time course
unspecified, but within the past year). He had a hand tremor when very fatigued back in college,
but it was bilateral and faster than his present tremor.
ROS: Negative except as above.
Allergies: NKDA.
Medications: HCTZ, Albuterol MDI pm (no use in past year).
PMH: High cholesterol, treated with diet. Mild asthma.
SH: No smoking, no EtOH, no illicit drugs. If you done CAGE (No for all 4)
He is a retired chemistry professor, married and lives with his wife.
FH: Noncontributory

NORMAL PHY.EXAMIN REPORTS IN Pt NOTES

Vitals: NWL, no orthostatic changes.
HEART: Regular Rhythm Rate (RRR), Normal S1 S2, no rubs, gallops or murmurs.
HEENT:
- NC/AT, non tender to palpate.
- No JVD, No Bruises
- PERLA (pupil, equal, reactive to light & accommodation)
- EOMI without Nystagmos, no papilleadema
- Nose: no external abnormality, turbinate anr not congested and no masses.
- Throat: no ulcers, erythema, patches, or exudates. Tonsils are normal no denta or gum abn.
- No cerumen, TMs normal, No redness or discharge, No tender auricle.
- Neck: Supple, Thyroid is not palpable, No palpable lymph nodes.
CHEST: Clear breath sounds bilaterally.
Abdominal: soft non distended, + BS, no tenderness, no rebound or guarding, no organomegaly.
CNS: alert oriented 3, good concentration.
CNs 2-12 intact.
Rinne test , tilt, Webber (no lateralization).
Motor: sensory= 5/5.
DTRs: 2 + intact, symmetrical, Babiniski.
Rombergs sign , finger to nose normal.
Normal gait.

Back: NROM, No para-spinal tenderness, No warmth or erythema

Examination of extremities:
Locate the pain & tenderness.

Test ROM on extension, flexion, adduction, abduction and external rotation.

Examine all the joints.
Pulse: intact, symmetric.
Sensation if intact to pinprick and soft touch.

Investigations
HEENT:
1. X-ray, CT, MRI of head
2. Eye- Snellens chart, Visual acuity
3. Ear- Complete audiometry and tympanometry, Culture/Sensitivity for any discharge
4. Routine CBC with diff, ESR
CNS:
1. Routine CBC with diff, ESR
2. X-ray, CT, MRI
3. Lumbar puncture
4. Carotid Doppler study
5. EEG
6. EMG & Nerve conduction studies.
7. ECG
Musculoskeletal:
1. Routine CBC with diff, ESR
2. X-ray
3. Joint aspiration for culture/ sensitive, cytology, crystals
4. Rheumatic factor, HLA-B27.
5. Serum uric acid levels
6. Antinuclear antibodies, anti dsDNA
7. Muscle biopsy
CVS:
1. EKG and echocardiogram
2. Cardiac enzymes (CPK-MB, Troponin, LDH)
3. Chest X-ray
4. Lipid profile
5. Thyroid screen
6. Serum electrolytes
Respiratory:
1. Routine CBC with diff, ESR
2. Chest X-ray & PPD
3. Sputum studies (culture/sensitivity, gram stain, AFB)
4. Pulmonary function tests and spirometry
6. ABG and pulse oximetry
Abdominal:
1. Routine CBC with diff, ESR
2. Abdominal X-ray & Ultrasound

4. LFTs
5. CT abdomen/pelvis
6. Upper GI series-Barium swallow, endoscopy, ERCP
7. Lower GI series- enema, Colonoscopy
8. Test for fecal occult blood/rectal examination
9. Pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase)
10. Renal function tests
Endocrine:
1. Routine CBC with diff, ESR
2. Blood sugar
3. Serum electrolytes & calcium
5. Thyroid screen T4/T3/TSH
6. 24hr urinary catecholamines and metabolites
7. Urine for ketones and sugar.
Psychiatry:
1. CBC and ESR
2. CT and MRI of brain
3. Thyroid screen
4. Electrolytes
5. Urine analysis
6. Drug screen / HIV

CHALLENGING QUESTION
Tremor case: Do you think I will get better?
I think your tremor will improve with medication, but I dont know how long the
improvement will last. The tremor may be a sign of a larger movement disorder called
Parkinsons disease, and we need to do more evaluation to explore that possibility.
Passing out case: Do you think I have a brain tumor?
I think its unlikely. To make absolutely sure, however, we will do a CT scan, which is a
special x-ray test of the brain. That will help us see the structure of the brain and rule out
any bleeding or tumor.
Weight gain: I want to go back to smoking because I believe that I have started gaining
weight since I quit.
I understand that your weight is very important to you, but its clear that the health
consequences of smoking far outweigh those associated with weight gain. We also need to
determine what else might be contributing to your weight gain and then discuss strategies
to deal with it.
2ry amenorrhea in 35 age: Am I going through menopause?
I doubt it. It would be extremely unusual at your age. I need to learn more by asking you
about other symptoms and examining you, and then we can discuss possible reasons you are
not having periods.

 Vaginal discharge case: When asked about vaginal discharge, ask, Do you think I have a
sexually transmitted disease?
There are many causes of vaginal discharge, only some of which are due to STD
infections. I will try to look for clues by asking you more questions and examining you, and
we will definitely send a sample of the discharge to the lab to check for infection.
Back Pain case: I dont think I can go to work, doctor. Can you write a letter to my boss
so that I can have some days off?
Youre right; heavy construction work can worsen your back pain or cause it to heal more
slowly. I will ask your boss to reassign you to light duty for a while.
Call encounter for mother c/o her baby has a diahrrea: How sick is my baby?
It is hard for me to give you an accurate answer over the phone. I would like you to bring
your baby here so that I can examine her and perhaps run some tests. After that, I
should be able to give you a more accurate assessment.
Hearing loss in elderly case: Do you think I am going deaf?
It is obvious from your symptoms and from the results of my exam that you do have
some kind of hearing deficit. We need to perform more complicated tests to fi gure out
the cause of the problem, to determine whether it is going to get worse, and to ascertain
whether we can halt its progression or improve your hearing. For the time being, I would
like you to stop taking aspirin.
Bed wetting case: Did I do something wrong to cause this problem? or
Is my child going to get better?
There are a few medical problems that can lead to your childs condition, but its just as
likely to be an isolated symptom. Bed-wetting is much more common than most people
believe, and there is no reason for you or your child to feel embarrassed or guilty. There
are a number of treatment options available for this condition, and after we have run a
few tests to rule out any physiologic abnormalities, I will discuss them with you.
Motor vheical accident case: Do you think I am going to die?
Your condition raises concern and is obviously urgent. We will start by taking some
images of your chest. Then, once we have a better idea of what might be wrong with you,
we can give you some medication to help you with your pain. If there is air or blood around
your lungs, there is a procedure we can perform that may release the pressure. We will be
monitoring you very closely from this point on, and if you have any signifi cant problems,
we will be available to make sure you keep breathing.
Old women with knee pain: Do you think I will be able to walk on my knee like
before?
Most likely, but that depends on the underlying problem and your response to
treatment.
HTN follow up case: I think it is my age. Isnt that right, doctor?

No, I dont think its because of your age. I worry more about your medications. However,
testosterone levels can decrease with age, and we will check for that.
Hematuria case:
case They told me this is because of my old age. Is that true?
No. Bloody urine is rarely normal.
HEADACHE in 35 yrs old women:
women Do you have anything that will make me feel
better? Please, doctor, I am in pain.
Yes, we have many options for medicines to relieve your pain, but first I need to learn as
much as I can about your pain so that I can recommend the best medicine.
Fatigue: either
Domestic violent: I want to go on a trip with my wife. Can we do the tests after I
come back?
It doesnt sound as if youre feeling well enough to be able to enjoy a trip. Lets do
some initial blood tests, and then we can see how youre feeling and decide whether
were comfortable letting you go away.
AIDS: I think that life is full of misery. Why do we have to live?
I am afraid that I might have AIDS.
This patient clearly has more to say. Silence is appropriate here, or some small
encouragement for the patient to continue talking. Alternatively, say, It sounds as if
youre losing hope. Have you thought about hurting yourself or tried to do so? Or
Tell me more about your concern about AIDS.

DM follow up case: Will I lose my feet, doctor?

Not if we continue to keep your blood sugars and cholesterol well controlled. The nerve
damage to your feet is uncomfortable but alone will not lead to amputation as long as you
take the proper measures to protect your feet from injury. Well discuss how to do that
later in the visit.

Alzheimer case:
case Do you think I have Alzheimers disease?
I dont know; we still need to do more testing. Tell me what you know about Alzheimers
disease.

Jaundice in elderly cases:

cases My father had pancreatic cancer. Could I have it too?
Its possible; thats why we always rule it out in patients with yellow eyes or skin. Your
family history does put you at slightly increased risk, and we will keep that in mind.

Persistent cough:
cough Will I get better if I stop smoking?
Well, we still have to sort out exactly whats making you sick. Stopping smoking should
help your chronic cough, and over the long term it will significantly decrease your cancer
risk.
Young with Cough: Do I need antibiotics to get better?

Possibly. Antibiotics dont help with bronchitis because this condition is primarily caused
by viruses that are not sensitive to antibiotics. However, if we find that you have
pneumonia, antibiotics will be needed.

Child with a fever: Do you think that I did the right thing by coming here and telling
you about my childs fever? or Is my child going to be okay?
You absolutely did the right thing. Maria may have an infection that needs antibiotics; we
need to examine her here in the office and then decide whether she needs any more
testing or treatment.

Infant with fever: Is my child going to be okay? or Do you think I need to bring my
child to the hospital?
Well, I will need to examine your child first. Although I suspect that he has a viral
infection, I still need to make sure he does not have anything else.

Chest pain in elderly:

elderly Is this a heart attack? Am I going to die?
As you suspect, your symptoms are of considerable concern. We need to learn more about
whats going on to know if your pain is life threatening.

Blood in stool:
stool My father had colon cancer. Could I have it too?
It is a possibility. Tell me more about the symptoms youre having that concern you with
regard to cancer.

Sore through: Do you think I have AIDS?

Thats a difficult question. Do you believe you have been exposed to HIV?

Elderly with arm pain: Doctor, do you think I will be able to move my arm again like
before? I hope so, but first we need to find out exactly what is causing your problem.

Young women with abdominal pain:

pain My child is in the house alone. I must leave
now. I cant afford to stay in the hospital. Please give me a prescription for antibiotics
so that I can leave.
First we have to make sure that your illness isnt life threatening. Our social worker would
be happy to work with you to ensure that your child is taken care of, as well as to address
any financial concerns you may have.

Patient moving with extreme pain on the bed the moment you enter the room!
1. Introduce Yourself with appropriate soberness.
2. Say "I am sorry that you are in so much pain - I shall go through some quick questions and
physical examination - as soon as I am done, I shall promptly have my nurse give you something for
your pain. I only ask you to bear with me for a few minutes - Is that ok Mr. Clinton?"
3. Drape the SP
4. Start

Patient refuses to answer questions about his/her sexual history?

"Dear Mrs. Bush, I understand the sensitive nature of this question, but be assured that this will not go out
of this room. The way clinical medicine works, there may be important clues hidden in this kind of information
and I want to do my best to help you. So shall we try answering these questions again ?"