Engage

The first stage focusses on identifying whether the person wants to have a conversation. It forms the initial part of the information gathering stage of the consultation and is critical to building rapport. It might look something like this:

• "May I ask – is this medicine for you?"

Follow up with (as relevant): 

• "Have you had this medicine before?"

Additional questions at this stage include:

• "What would be helpful to know about this medicine today?”

And you could follow up with: 

• "Would you like a phone call at another time?"

Or (if patient or their representative agrees):

• "I’ve got some information about how to use/take this medicine. Would you like me to share it with you now?"

If the person isn’t interested in having a conversation, point out the labelling information on the container and highlight the presence of any patient information leaflet. Offer them the opportunity to call or come back if they have any questions.