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The Ultimate Doctor’s Visit Checklist for Caregivers

The Ultimate Doctor’s Visit Checklist for Caregivers | Euro-American Connections & Homecare

Besides your day-to-day activities and to-do’s, one of your most important responsibilities as a caregiver is accompanying your client to their doctors appointments.

One of the best things you can do is plan ahead- especially if your client is disabled or cognitively impaired. As we grow older, it is critical that we each take each appointment and check-up seriously. Between worsening arthritis, to increased blood pressure and cholesterol, our doctors and geriatric specialists can spot hundreds of warning signs of a worsening condition, or serious disease.

Here is a checklist to make sure you make the most of each appointment!

Before the appointment

  1. Have a list of questions prepared about your clients condition – just so you don’t forget! Even the most basic question you or your client have can be helpful. Ask away!
  2. Identify any symptoms that seem out of the ordinary. Whether it’s trouble breathing, sleeping, lack of appetite and aches and pains, each symptom you note can help your doctor find a solution for your client or loved one.
  3. Update your client’s medication list and make sure you bring any information on new medications your client may be taking. Sometimes different doctors may prescribe or recommend new medications, so it’s critical that each is aware of the medications your client is taking. Taking certain medications together can be extremely dangerous!
  4. Be sure to confirm the appointment ahead of time. This will save you precious time getting your client ready and taking them to the appointment.

During the visit…

  1. Report your client’s symptoms and present the updated medication list to their doctor
  2. Be sure to ask all of your questions and write down the answers so you don’t forget anything!
  3. You’ll most likely get some great advice on how to alleviate your clients symptoms or general advice on diet and wellness. Be sure to write down the doctor’s instructions.
  4. After you’re finished, plan ahead, and schedule a follow-up appointment.

 

After the visit

  1. If your client had a blood test done at the visit, be on the lookout for any test results in the mail, or call ahead to speak with the doctor and schedule another call to discuss with the client’s family.
  2. Re-organize your client’s medications, and file away new paperwork you received.
  3. Update your calendar and set a reminder for your follow – up appointment.

 

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