Listening for Detail: Consultations Flashcards

A patient says, "The pain started about three days ago, but it's only become unbearable since last night." When did the pain become severe?

Answer: Last night

The patient specifies the pain became unbearable 'since last night,' marking the onset of severity.

A doctor advises, "Take one tablet twice daily with food, but skip the evening dose if you feel nauseous." How many tablets are taken on a nausea-free day?

Answer: Two

Twice daily means two tablets when no dose is skipped.

A patient reports, "I've cut down to about five cigarettes a day, down from a pack." What is the patient describing?

Answer: A reduction in smoking

'Cut down' from a pack to five indicates a reduction in smoking.

A nurse notes, "The swelling has gone down, though the bruising is still quite prominent." What remains a problem?

Answer: The bruising

Swelling has reduced, but bruising is 'still quite prominent.'

A patient says, "I'm allergic to penicillin, and I think shellfish bothers me too, but I'm not certain." Which allergy is the patient sure about?

Answer: Penicillin

The patient is certain about penicillin but unsure about shellfish.

A doctor says, "We'll start with blood tests, and depending on those results, possibly an ultrasound later." What is the immediate next step?

Answer: Blood tests

Blood tests come first; the ultrasound is conditional and later.

A patient explains, "The headaches are worse in the mornings and ease off by afternoon." When are the headaches least severe?

Answer: Afternoon

They 'ease off by afternoon,' meaning they are least severe then.