4. Ending the consultation
Ending the consultation
Every consultation is different but the following questions may provide a useful framework for closing the discussion:
- “Is there anything you’d like me to go over again?”
The information that a patient receives when starting a new medicine can feel overwhelming. Asking this question gives embarrassment-free permission to ask for some key information to be repeated, which could make all the difference in terms of their confidence in – and hence compliance with – their new medicine.
- “Is there anything else you want to know about your medicine?”
The patient may not have any questions at this point, but suggest they make a note of any that occur in the future and pop back in to ask them, rather than abruptly stopping the medicine.
- “Have you heard of the UK Gout Society?”
Signposting to this and other relevant resources can be a useful source of knowledge and support as a patient moves forward with their treatment. The UK Gout Society can be accessed on the website or by emailing info@ukgoutsociety.org. NHS information is also available.
Learning scenario 2
CORRECT. Helping him to establish a daily routine to remember to take his medication is a good idea.
INCORRECT. Samran needs regular blood tests to establish his serum urate levels and guide dosage increases.
INCORRECT. While starting ULT can precipitate a gout attack, a NSAID or colchicine is recommended first-line, but never aspirin.
CORRECT. Allopurinol can cause neurological effects such as somnolence and dizziness, so Samran should make sure he is not experiencing any of these before embarking on skilled tasks such as driving.