Make it clear who is leading, usually the most senior doctor. But it may be a PA or ACP. Before the WR, the leader should identify themselves, who everyone is, and assign roles (e.g. X checks bloods on computer, Y checks observations).
The leader should add an expectation of learning for students. Students should mainly listen and learn, but can ask questions at correct time, usually towards the end of the patient assessment.
Determine the order. This is very important. Before you go to Bed 1 (or 30) ask to start with the ‘quick then the sick’:
Junior should give the first patient’s drug card to leader. Start.
Leader introduces him/herself clearly, saying “these are doctors and nurses in the team”. Senior should stand or sit nearest patient and lead questions
Leader states current diagnoses
Leader says “How are you feeling today?”
Ask to see most up-to-date information, especially ‘big tests’ (e.g. biopsies and scans)
Leader makes sure team have written down abnormal observations, and has checked the drug card themselves. Make changes. Check:
Leader “Ok, so this is the plan .. ” This must include a discharge plan. Juniors should ask senior for one if not given
Leader makes sure the WR and plan have been correctly documented, and it is clear who is carrying out which action
Ask the patient if they have any questions.
Next patient!
That is a hard one. It depends on the number, types of patient, and proportion of new patients. Allow 3 hours maximum. 2-2.5 hours is better. It’s hard to concentrate over 3 hours.
Start early, no later than 8.30 am. Allow 10 mins for each patient. Don’t rush it but have it done by 11.30am so the patients can have lunch. Surgical WRs tend to be much shorter, partly as there are fewer patients, and often have one problem.
We have described how to review a patient on a ward round. We hope it has been helpful.