Table of Contents > Part B: Generic Topics > General Principles of History Taking

General Principles of History Taking

Introduce yourself, indicating name and medical student status
Listen without interruption
Allow time for patient to ventilate feelings, avoid rushing the patient
Appreciate possible cultural issues: 

• avoidance of eye contact to show respect for doctor, 
• delay in answering question may be related to difficulty understanding the question, poor English skills, translating into own language, embarrassment
• desire to answer in the affirmative to appease doctor
• natural shyness
• hospital setting may be alien environment

Avoid threatening open stance/position.
Consider the need for an interpreter service.
Use considered, directed questions to elucidate the problem
Look at the whole picture –particularly family, social and lifestyle issues
Appreciate the patient’s priorities
Avoid medical terminology
Be particularly sensitive about the phrasing of certain issues eg pelvic infections, sexual activity
Speak plain English – avoid double negative phrases
Ensure that the patient has understood the question
Summarize the patient’s history and see if patient agrees with your interpretation