The first few minutes of a consultation help you understand why the patient has come. Start by introducing yourself and checking the patient's name and date of birth. Then ask a simple question: “What brings you in today?” Give the patient time to answer before asking for more detail. If they mention a cough, ask when it started and how it affects them. “Does it keep you awake at night?” is more specific than “Is it bad?” Ask about other symptoms and any medicine they have taken. It also helps to ask, “Is there anything you're particularly worried about?” The patient's main concern may not be the symptom itself. They may be worried about an infection or missing work. Before moving on, briefly check your understanding: “So, you've had a cough for four days, but no fever.” Then explain what you would like to examine and ask if that is OK.

Um doente estrangeiro chega nervoso e começa a contar tudo ao mesmo tempo. Abre a consulta, organiza o relato dele e fica com o essencial: queixa principal, duração e medicação. A meio, ele diz que já andou a tomar comprimidos de um familiar. Reage sem o julgar e recolhe a informação que te falta.

Escreves a um doente estrangeiro antes da primeira consulta. Escreve 3 a 6 frases em inglês. Pede a informação clínica que te falta, explica porque precisas dela e indica o que trazer e como confirmar a hora.