Patient History
Patient History refers to the detailed record of a person's health information over time. It's like a health story that includes past illnesses, treatments, medications, allergies, and family health background. Healthcare workers use patient histories to make better care decisions and spot potential health risks. This information can be recorded on paper charts or in electronic health records (EHRs). When candidates mention patient history skills, they're saying they know how to gather, document, and use this important health information to provide good patient care.
Examples in Resumes
Conducted thorough Patient History interviews with 20+ patients daily in busy clinic setting
Developed streamlined Patient History documentation process that reduced intake time by 30%
Trained new staff members on proper Patient History and Medical History collection techniques
Managed electronic Patient History records for department of 500+ active patients
Typical job title: "Healthcare Professionals"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Healthcare Professionals
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where a patient's history contains conflicting information from different sources?
Expected Answer: A senior healthcare professional should discuss verification processes, consulting multiple sources, communicating with previous providers, and documenting discrepancies appropriately while ensuring patient safety.
Q: Describe your experience in training others on patient history collection and documentation.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership in teaching best practices, developing protocols, ensuring compliance with regulations, and implementing quality improvement measures.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What key elements do you look for when reviewing a patient's history?
Expected Answer: Should mention checking current medications, allergies, chronic conditions, recent hospitalizations, family history, and social history while explaining why each is important.
Q: How do you ensure accuracy when collecting patient history?
Expected Answer: Should discuss verification techniques, asking clarifying questions, cross-referencing with previous records, and proper documentation methods.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What information do you collect when taking a basic patient history?
Expected Answer: Should list basic elements like current symptoms, past medical conditions, medications, allergies, and family history.
Q: How do you make patients feel comfortable when asking about their medical history?
Expected Answer: Should discuss maintaining professional manner, showing empathy, ensuring privacy, and using appropriate communication skills.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic patient interviewing
- Standard documentation practices
- Understanding of medical terminology
- Basic electronic health record use
Mid (2-5 years)
- Detailed history taking
- Complex documentation management
- Patient education
- Quality assurance practices
Senior (5+ years)
- Staff training and supervision
- Policy development
- Quality improvement implementation
- Complex case management
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to maintain patient confidentiality
- Poor documentation skills
- Lack of attention to detail
- Weak communication skills
- No knowledge of healthcare privacy laws
Related Terms
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