How do I organize a patient note for the best oral presentation?

From the Guidelines

To organize a patient note for the best oral presentation, structure it using the SOAP format (Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan), prioritizing relevant information and maintaining a logical flow, as recommended by recent guidelines 1. When organizing a patient note, it is essential to include key patient information, such as name, date of birth, and contact details, as suggested by earlier studies 1. However, the most recent and highest quality study 1 emphasizes the importance of effective patient-clinician communication, which can be achieved by:

• Avoiding unnecessary delays in providing information
• Communicating with consultants and others involved in the patient’s care
• Considering the most appropriate method of communication (e.g., phone, mail, or in-person meeting)
• Orienting the patient to the discussion and ensuring they understand the information being presented
• Using simple language and avoiding jargon
• Providing information in small doses and checking for comprehension
• Assuring the patient that you are available to answer questions in the future In terms of the SOAP format, the following elements should be included:
• Subjective: relevant history, including HPI, past medical history, medications, allergies, and social history
• Objective: vital signs, physical exam findings, and pertinent lab or imaging results
• Assessment: clear statement of diagnosis or differential diagnoses with supporting evidence
• Plan: specific management steps, including medications with exact dosages and durations, follow-up recommendations, and patient education points By following this structured approach and prioritizing effective communication, you can ensure that your oral presentation is concise, efficient, and effective in conveying critical information to healthcare teams.

From the Research

Organizing Patient Notes for Oral Presentation

To organize a patient note for the best oral presentation, several strategies can be employed:

• Identify the key elements of the patient's case, including the chief complaint, history of present illness, past medical history, and relevant laboratory or imaging results 2
• Structure the presentation using a clear and concise format, such as the SOAP (Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan) note format 3, 4
• Focus on the most important information and avoid unnecessary details 2
• Use a logical and chronological order to present the information, making it easy to follow and understand 4
• Practice the presentation to ensure that it can be delivered within the allotted time frame and to make any necessary adjustments 5, 6

Key Elements of an Effective Oral Presentation

The following elements are essential for an effective oral presentation:

• Clear and concise language 2
• Well-organized structure 4
• Relevant and accurate information 3
• Good communication skills, including verbal and non-verbal cues 5, 6
• Ability to answer questions and address concerns from the audience 2

Tools and Resources

Several tools and resources can be used to improve oral presentation skills, including:

• Peer and self-evaluation 6
• Video recording and playback 6
• Feedback from instructors or mentors 5
• Practice and rehearsal 5, 6
• Use of technology, such as speech recognition software or AI-powered solutions, to generate and organize patient notes 3