Describe what generally takes place from the time a patient checks in at a physician's office until ...

The patient checks in with the receptionist.

In the waiting area, the patient updates his or her medical historyand reason for the visit.

The patient moves to an exam room, and a nurse takes vitals and reviews the symptoms and reason for visit.

The physician enters, reviews the chart, and discusses the symptoms and reason for the visit. If it is necessary for patient to disrobe, the doctor usually leaves to see another patient, then returns to perform the clinical exam.

The clinician performs a physical exam, accesses patient condition, writes orders for tests or prescriptions, provides education or counseling, and dictates or updates the chart.

If tests have been ordered, a specimen is taken or the patient is given directions to an outside lab.

The patient is given educational material and prescriptions and checks out.