3/4 The Consultation:

What should we expect when we arrive?

The Out-Patients department is usually quite busy. When you arrive go to the reception and tell them who you have come to see. You may be told to sit in the waiting area until your name is called.

What will the consultant do?

First, the consultant will ask either you or your child (depending on her age) to tell him about the problem. To make a diagnosis the consultant needs to have as much information as possible, so try to remember when your child first became ill, if anything makes her feel better or worse and what actually happens.

Don't forget to mention any other problems such as bed wetting, tantrums, or if your child seems much quieter or more clingy than usual. They all may help.The doctor will then examine your child.You can stay with your child throughout the consultation.

What should I ask the consultant?

If you are not sure about anything the consultant says, ask him to explain. Writing a list of questions to ask about your child's condition is a helpful way to make sure you've covered all your concerns. Questions like what caused the problem, how it is normally treated, what you can do to help, if there are any long-term side effects and how to stop it from happening again, are all things you may want to know. out your child.

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