Anticipatory guidance
Formal Definition
Proactive communication about what to expect and what to watch for, given during handoffs or to patients.
How It's Used on the Ward
"Give me the if-then" = tell me what could go wrong and what to do about it.
Example
"During signout: "If his potassium comes back above 6, give kayexalate and repeat in 2 hours. If above 6.5 with EKG changes, call me and consider calcium gluconate.""
Clinical Context
Great signouts include anticipatory guidance. It shows you've thought ahead and prepares the covering team for likely scenarios.
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