Leg Pain Flashcards
Name
Amir Badawi
Age
40+
Place of work:
Factory
Symptoms (6)
- You have also been suffering from a cramp-like pain affecting both calves which has been getting worse for 1 year.
- The pain only comes on when you exercise.
- The pain starts when you walk 200 yards at a normal pace on the flat.
- The pain comes on more quickly if you walk up hills, climb stairs or hurry.
- The pain eases over 1-2 minutes on resting but comes back when you walk again.
- Because of the pain you have to stop and look in shop windows whilst you are out shopping.
Concerns
- You are worried that you may lose your legs.
- You know someone who needed an amputation because of poor circulation.
(The student should be able to tell that you are nervous and should try and put you at ease, but this station is not designed to test communication so please do not ask the student any questions or break down in tears. We are not expecting the student to explore your concerns – there will not be enough time for them to complete the station if they do this)
Extra info on illness (4)
- You DO NOT have leg pain at rest.
- You do not get any pain in your leg at night and do not get any pain that wakes you from sleep.
- If asked specifically what happens if you hang your leg over the side of the bed with the foot down, say it makes no difference.
- You do not have any wounds/ulcers on your leg.
Smoke?
20 per day since teens
Alcohol
No
Diabetes?
No
High blood pressure?
Yes - on some pill (cannot remember which)
Blood cholesterol
High - on a tablet but can’t remember what.
Other medication / allergies
Blood pressure and cholesterol pills. Nothing else.
Circulation problems? (2)
- Never had a heart attack or stroke.
- Do not suffer from chest pain.
Kidney disease?
No
Kidney disease?
No
Family history
Mother had diabetes and died of a heart attack aged 67
Acting notes:
Please give brief answers, do not volunteer too much information. The candidates collect points for asking about your pain, the associated symptoms, exacerbating/ relieving factors, risk factors and your concerns.
Rough consultation script
Student should greet you, introduce themselves and ask why you have come to hospital
You should say “I have pains in my legs”
When did it start? – about a year ago
What is it like? – a bad cramp
Does anything make it worse? – walking How long does it take to come on? - 200yds What makes it better? – rest
Has this been any worse recently? – not really Any pain at rest/night? – no
Where does it hurt? – both calves
Any pain in the thigh/buttocks? – no
