History Taking and Interview Techniques

Comprehensive Adult Health History

Personal and social history

• Patient’s personality
• Interests
• Sources of support?
• Coping style
• Strengths and fears
• Occupation!
• Last year of schooling

Comprehensive Adult Health History

Personal and social history

• Leisure activities
• Religious affiliation and spiritual beliefs (Jehova’s Wittnesses for example?)
• Activities of daily living (particularly in older and disabled patients)
• Lifestyle habits (exercise and diet)

Comprehensive Adult Health History

• Review of systems
• Questions may be reserved and asked during the physical examination

Interview Techniques

The primary goal is to improve the well-being of

the patient!

Establish a relationship

Gather information

Offer information

It is much more than just asking a series of