Uncover the patient’s perspective in every consultation.

1. IIdeasWhat does the patient think is going on? “What did you think might be causing this?”
2. CConcernsWhat are they worried about? “Is there anything in particular you’re worried it could be?”
3. EExpectationsWhat do they hope for today? “What were you hoping we could do for you?”

When to use it: Almost every station — weave it in early and naturally, not as a checklist.

A dependable skeleton for the whole encounter.

1. •Initiate the sessionGreet, introduce yourself and your role, confirm the patient, and agree the agenda.
2. •Gather informationExplore the problem and the patient’s perspective (ICE); use open then closed questions.
3. •Provide structureSignpost and summarise as you go so the consultation stays on track.
4. •Build the relationshipUse empathy, respond to cues, and involve the patient throughout.
5. •Explanation & planningGive information in chunks, check understanding, and share decisions.
6. •Close the sessionSummarise, safety-net, agree next steps, and check the patient is content.

When to use it: History-taking and explanation stations — keeps you organised under time pressure.

A six-step protocol for difficult conversations.

1. SSettingPrivate setting, sit down, minimise interruptions, and check who should be present.
2. PPerceptionFind out what the patient already knows and understands.
3. IInvitationAsk how much they want to know before you tell them.
4. KKnowledgeGive a warning shot, then the news in plain language, in small chunks.
5. EEmotionsAcknowledge and respond to emotion with empathy; allow silence.
6. SStrategy & summaryAgree a clear plan and next steps, and summarise before closing.

When to use it: Breaking bad news and some relatives stations.

A safe, senior-minded response to a struggling or unsafe colleague.

1. SSeek informationGather the facts non-judgementally before acting.
2. PPatient safetyMake patient safety the overriding priority in everything you decide.
3. IInitiativeTake reasonable, proportionate steps within your competence.
4. EEscalateInvolve a senior or appropriate person when it is beyond you.
5. SSupportOffer support to the colleague — this is not only about escalation.

When to use it: Communication-with-colleagues and ethical stations (e.g. a colleague’s error or impairment).

Tell the patient what to expect and when to seek help.

1. •What to expectExplain the likely course and time frame for improvement.
2. •What to watch forName the specific warning signs that should prompt action.
3. •What to do & whenSay exactly whom to contact and how urgently (GP, 111, A&E, 999).
4. •Confirm & documentCheck understanding, offer written information, and arrange follow-up.

When to use it: The end of virtually every clinical station — examiners look for it.

Red-flag quick reference

Screen for these when they’re relevant, and safety-net around them. Not exhaustive — clinical judgement always applies.