Cardiovascular examination: exertional breathlessness in an older man

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Patient: George Bennett, 71, male

Patient: Hello doctor. My GP sent me because I get out of breath so easily these days, especially going up the stairs. I get short of breath walking up a flight of stairs or up the hill to the shops. It has crept up on me over about a year. I am worried my heart is giving out, my brother had to have heart surgery.

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Introduces self, states role and confirms the patient's name and date of birthExplains the examination and gains verbal consentOffers a chaperone as appropriate, exposes only what is needed and maintains dignity and comfortWashes or sanitises hands before examiningSignposts and explains each step in plain language, checking for discomfortResponds empathically to the patient's worriesSummarises findings and explains the likely next steps in plain languageThanks the patient, helps them re-dress and closes the consultation