The key to a successful visit with your primary care physician begins with the nursing staff you meet before your appointment.
It’s common for people to arrive at their appointment with a list of health-related questions and concerns. But some patients wait until the doctor is in the room to share those questions and concerns. Telling a nursing staff member prior to the physician’s arrival can help you make the most of your appointment.
The nursing staff who take your blood pressure, temperature and pulse are an important resource, and they are best-equipped to do their job when they’re well-informed about your health. When necessary, they can also relay that information to your physician.
So which details are important to share?
We asked Linda Wick, the executive director of nursing for University of Minnesota Physicians, and Deb Cathcart, the University of Minnesota Health chief nurse executive, to share five important pointers with us. Scroll down to read more.
If you are experiencing side effects or have concerns about your current medication, let the nursing staff know immediately so the problems can be documented. This way your physician will have this information already when they come to see you. Also, if you need any medications refilled, please inform your nursing staff.
If you are taking vitamins, weight loss supplements or probiotics, please provide this information to the nursing staff at your visit. It is important to include these items in your chart so that nursing staff and your doctor have an accurate overview of everything you are taking. Vitamin, supplement or probiotic use may also cause health effects—which can then be easily identified and addressed by the doctor.