c h a p t e r 9
Informal caregivers may be important “informants.” They can also help to reinforce the importance of information you give or the treatment you prescribe.
To protect and honor patient privacy, be sure to check with the patient on how he or she sees the companion’s role. In many cases, the caregiver or companion can be a facilitator, helping the patient express concerns and reinforcing what you say. But it is best not to assume that a companion should be included in the medical encounter. First, check with the patient.
Conducting the physical exam alone protects the patient’s privacy and allows you to raise sensitive issues. For instance, the best time to conduct a
“mini-mental” test is during a private exam, so that a family member cannot answer questions or cover for the patient’s cognitive lapses.
When a companion is present, be aware of communication issues that arise in three-party interactions. Whenever possible, try to sit so that you form a For more information on working with families
and caregivers, contact:
Administration on Aging (AoA)