Patient Intake Study Guide – Key Questions & Importance

1. Importance of Verifying Allergies

• Why ask about allergies?

• Prevents serious allergic reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis).

• Ensures safe medication administration.

• Helps avoid food or environmental triggers in medical settings.

• Key questions to ask:

• Do you have any allergies?

• What type of reaction do you have? (e.g., rash, difficulty breathing, nausea)

• Have you ever needed emergency treatment for an allergy?

2. Asking About Smoking & Alcohol Use

• Why is it important?

• Smoking and alcohol can affect overall health, medication effectiveness, and healing.

• Helps identify risk factors for conditions like heart disease, lung disease, and liver problems.

• Key questions to ask:

• Do you smoke? If yes, how often and how much?

• Have you ever considered quitting smoking?

• Do you drink alcohol? If yes, how often and how much?

• Have you had any past issues related to alcohol use?

3. Verifying Contact Information

• Why is this important?

• Ensures the office can contact the patient for appointments, test results, and emergencies.

• Helps keep records up to date for billing and insurance purposes.

• Key questions to ask:

• Can you confirm your phone number?

• Is this the best number to reach you?

• Do you have an emergency contact?