At the Clinic: Patient Evaluations
Patient History
- Why you are seeing the doctor
- Your current problem
- How it bothers you
- Review of appropriate medical records, films and pathology slides brought by all new patients
- Review of copies of records and films made since last visit brought by all return patients
- Previous unrelated illnesses
- Current medications
- Prescription
- Non-prescription
- Social history
- Family medical history
Physical Examination
The Ear
Accomplished with an otoscope, and sometimes a microscope, which allows an enlarged view of the ear drum.
The Nose
Performed by looking into the nose with a nasal speculum. Sometimes a nasal endoscope - a straight rod with a lighted end - is used for a better look into the nose.
The Throat
Accomplished with a tongue blade and mirrors, and sometimes a very thin lighted tube - inserted through the nose, which allows the vocal cords to be seen.
The Head and Neck
Determines the likelihood of growths, thyroid nodules or salivary gland tumors.
