Neighbour (checkpoints)
Last reviewed 12/2021
Neighbour - The Inner Consultation
Neighbour proposed five checkpoints in the consultation:
1. Connecting: have we got rapport?
2. Summarising: could I demonstrate to the patient that I've sufficiently understood why he's come:
- the patient's reason for attending
- the patient's ideas and feelings, concerns and expectations are explored and acknowledged adequately
- listening and eliciting
- the clinical process - assess, diagnose, explain, negotiate and agree
3. Handing over: has the patient accepted the management plan we have agreed?
4. Safety netting: What if...? General practice is the art of managing uncertainty:
- predict what could happen if things go well
- allow for an unexpected turn of events
- plans and contingency plans
5. Housekeeping: Am I in good condition for the next patient? - stress, concentration and equanimity
Reference:
- (1) Roger Neighbour, The Inner Consultation, MTP, 1987