Clinical Reasoning and Animal Welfare

In the second episode focussing on Clinical Decision Making, this week we look at clinical reasoning. Last week we discussed the way in which vets make decisions and all of the things that they are juggling at the one time, considering their own knowledge and experience, alongside the needs of the owner and the needs of the animal.  Clinical reasoning encompasses all of the processes that take place in a consultation, and that lead to the decision making process. It can be described in different ways, but one approach is to consider: collecting information, processing it, identifying problems, setting goals, taking action, evaluating outcomes, and reflecting. Alongside this we need to consider the importance of owner input, thorough patient history, and avoiding bias, alongside the need for clear communication with owners about treatment plans and costs. More information can be found at Vet Your Decisions