Here’s a checklist for discussing or describing a procedure – whether it’s for an exam question or just for kicks…
Opening statement (preamble/history)
First, check indication valid and no contra-indications:
- Indications
- Contraindications
Preparation
- Area
- Staff (training, credentials, universal precautions)
- Equipment
- Monitoring
- Procedural
- Drugs
- Information (Past Medical History, etc)
Patient
- Explanation
- Reason
- Risks
- Alternatives
- Informed Consent & documentation
- Preparation
- AMPLE Hx incl. Fasting
- Analgesia
- Sedation / Amnesia / distraction
- Posture / positioning
Procedure
- Relative / parents present
- Technique
Post-procedure care
- Confirm success
- Complications seek & treat
- Recovery
- Disposition
- Safe discharge criteria
- Paperwork
- Prescription
- Discharge letter / referral
- Off-Work certificate / Worker’s Compensation
- Advice sheets
- Follow-up
‘Consultant’ issues
- Alternatives to procedure
- Tips & traps (incl. Medicolegal)
- Controversies