NARRATOR
It is not unusual for clinicians to ask themselves what they really know about functional status as they perform comprehensive assessments. Typical questions that clinicians ask themselves are: What else should I be looking for? What else am I going to have to ask about? What can I determine about safety at this point?

NATALIA
Mr. Walden, I noticed from the notes that your doctor sent over that the pain in your hip is pretty intense sometimes.

MR. WALDEN
Oh, yes, but it's a lot better than before the hip replacement surgery. Much better. But anyway, I'm sorry now I waited so long to have it done.

NATALIA
And you're relieved to be home, it sounds like.

MR. WALDEN
Oh, yes, yes. There's no question about that.

NATALIA
Okay. I'm going to ask you a bit more about the pain and how you're getting around. That will let me know what helps and what you might need help with. But the main goal is to make sure that we keep you safe until you've fully recovered.

MR. WALDEN
Well, I have such wonderful neighbors. Yes, and my daughter's coming to visit next week and it's going to get hard until I can get to driving. But that's one of the reasons why I had this operation, so the pain wouldn't keep me from being on my own. But, ah, I don't like to rely on people too long. I like to do things, I got a lot of things I want to do. And what if this doesn't work? I just don't know what I'd do. But I sure hope my daughter is not thinking I can't manage on my own.

NARRATOR
Any clues about supportive assistance? Could he be a bit worried or anxious about his recovery? What can I ask to clarify? Maybe I'll follow through on this point and get a little more about assistance, that way I can ask him to use the walker to the bathroom. Check out if what he says he is able to do is really true.

NATALIA
Everything you've told me, Mr. Walden, that's all very helpful information. What I'm wondering is…

NARRATOR
Just as Natalia is considering what she's observed so far during the visit to guide what next to observe and discuss, you too can mix and match your own interview style and sequence. Remember, although you may develop a comfortable routine overall, every patient's circumstances are different and the more skilled you become at integrating interview and observation, the more likely you'll be able to complete a comprehensive assessment thoroughly and efficiently.