ABSTRACT
This chapter is the first of a four-part section on the veterinary appointment. It advises the practitioner how to best prepare for a narrative-medicine-based appointment.
To understand the client’s perspective, it is often helpful to consider their previous veterinary experiences and view the upcoming interaction as the continuation of an ongoing narrative. Reviewing the patient’s record before entering the examination room can increase the awareness of both patient and client histories. The resulting informed discussion can help to both set the client at ease and increase efficiency. A less anxious client may also translate to a calmer patient.
Through narrative, the practitioner enters the unique world of the client, which is where our patient lives. An understanding of the client’s world view can assist the practitioner in formulating customized recommendations.
This chapter also discusses the benefits of keeping a “beginner’s mind” perspective, and checking assumptions at the door.
