Instructions
You are a medical student on placement on the stroke unit. Desmond Keogh, 79, was admitted yesterday after his wife found him collapsed at home, and he has not woken since. The consultant has asked you to speak with his wife, Maureen, who is waiting in the family room.
Take a focused history from Mrs Keogh
Explain his condition and your management plan to Mrs Keogh
- You do not need to examine Mr Keogh; you will speak with his wife in the family room
- You do not need to summarise to the examiner
Consultant's note, 10 am today
CT on arrival: a large bleed deep in the left side of the brain, into the ventricles. Repeat CT at 7 am: the bleed has grown, with severe swelling pushing the brain to the right. Neurosurgery and the stroke consultant have reviewed him: an operation would not help. Please talk with his wife.