The Effective Clinical Neurologist

The Effective Clinical Neurologist presents the most systematic guide available for the doctor or medical student learning the art of the neurological examination and treatment. The patient-centered method is presented in logical steps, walking the reader through the process in a clear and detailed, yet personal style. The authors begin by placing neurological medicine in its current cultural and economic environment and progress to presenting the specific process of interacting with the patient.This book is the only guide to the art of achieving optimal doctor–patient interaction and communication, which are essential to the practicing neurologist. The third edition of this classic reference is fully updated to include the impact of electronic communication and to incorporate the many technological advances that can be applied to the neurological evaluation. Other changes in the environment in which the clinician practices include the changes in procedure brought about by managed care.

This edition is organized into four parts, beginning with a section on the clinician–neurologist and the scope, methods, and uniqueness of this area of medicine. Part II focuses on the patient encounter – the taking of a history, systemic and neurological examination, interpretation of tests, giving the patient information, and conducting the “dismissal interview.”

Case examples illustrate the methods discussed. Part III presents the various types of encounters that occur, including those that involve inpatient care, outpatient care, consultations, and the inclusion of medical students and other trainees. Medico-legal aspects of neurological care are also presented. Part IV concludes with a summing up of the approach to patient care that is presented in the book and offers 10 Commandments of Doctoring.