Step 1. Observe the Problem
- When did it start? What are the
symptoms?
- If you have pain, is it a dull ache or stabbing
pain?
- Measure your vital signs: temperature,
pulse
,
breaths (respiration rate), and
blood pressure. - Think back:
- Have you had this problem
before?
- What did you do for it?
- Have there been any
recent changes in your life (stress, medicines, food, exercise,
etc.)?
- Does anyone else at home or work have these symptoms?
Step 2. Learn More About It
- Check the Healthwise
Knowledgebase.
- What do other books or articles say about the
problem?
- What advice or opinions have other people (lay or
professional) offered to you?
Step 3. Make an Action Plan
- What do you think is wrong?
- What
have you decided to do about it?
Step 4. Evaluate Your Progress
Are you getting better or worse?
Credits
| Author | Debby Golonka, MPH |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated | June 20, 2007 |
