Summary Palpitations History Taking Guide for Medical Students

Palpitations History Taking Guide

1. Introduction & Opening the Consultation
 Wash hands and put on PPE if needed
 Introduce yourself (name, role)
 Confirm patient identity (name, DOB)
 Explain you will take a history
 Obtain consent to proceed


2. General Communication Skills
 Show empathy (respond to verbal & non-verbal cues)
 Use active listening (body language, verbal responses)
 Maintain appropriate eye contact
 Use open, relaxed, professional body language
 Avoid interrupting the patient
 Establish rapport (ask how they are, offer seat)
 Signpost during consultation (explain what you are discussing)
 Summarise regularly


3. Presenting Complaint
 Open questions to explore symptoms:
o “What brought you in today?”
o “Tell me about your palpitations.”
 Confirm patient’s understanding of palpitations (pounding,
fluttering, irregular heartbeat)

4. History of Presenting Complaint (HPC)
a) Onset
 Sudden or gradual start?
 When did it start?
 What were you doing?
b) Triggers & Relievers
 Any precipitating factors? (e.g. exertion, anxiety, caffeine, alcohol)
 What helps the palpitations stop?
c) Rate & Rhythm
 How fast do they feel?
 Regular or irregular?
 Missed or extra beats?
 Can patient tap out the pattern?
d) Duration & Frequency
 How long do episodes last?
 How often do they happen?
 Worst episode description?