It is a great idea to be prepared. Ward rounds move fast—consultants often see 20 to 30 patients in a single morning. Having a written checklist ensures you don’t forget the important details when the team arrives at your bedside.
Here is a focused checklist of questions to help you get the most out of your consultation.
What is the main priority for my care today? (e.g., a specific test, a medication change, or physical therapy).
Have any of my test results come back? (Ask specifically about blood tests or scans performed in the last 24 hours).
Is my diagnosis confirmed, or are we still investigating?
Are there any changes to my medications, and why?
What needs to happen before I can safely go home? (This is often called the “Expected Date of Discharge” or EDD criteria).
Do I have any restrictions? (e.g., Can I get out of bed? Should I be fasting for a test?)
Are there any specialists (like a cardiologist or a physiotherapist) I am still waiting to see?
What is my current “Expected Date of Discharge”?
Will I need new medications or equipment (like a walker or oxygen) at home?
Who will be my point of contact if I feel unwell after I leave?
Will I need a follow-up appointment in the outpatient clinic?
The “One-Minute” Rule: If you have a long list of concerns, try to summarize your top three questions into one minute. This ensures the consultant addresses what matters most to you before they move to the next patient.
Nominate a Spokesperson: If you are feeling very tired, ask a family member to be present (or on speakerphone) during the round to take notes for you.
The “Secretary” Card: As mentioned before, ask for the Consultant’s Secretary’s name and phone number. If you forget to ask a question during the round, the secretary is often the most efficient way to get a message to the doctor later in the day.
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