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Handshakes and consultations

Stuart Sanders
British Journal of General Practice 2007; 57 (539): 500.
Stuart Sanders
22 Harmont House 20 Harley Street, London W1G 9PH. E-mail:
Roles: Family Doctor
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Mike Jenkins' letter1 analysing patients' reasons for spontaneous handshaking made interesting reading and, while I think his conclusions are compeling, he should have prefaced his report by emphasising the importance of handshaking for all consultations in this context.

I believe that a form of physical contact with patients of every age is important; it is both bonding and comforting for the patient, and it needs to be no more than a reassuring hand on the arm as the patient enters or leaves the room. This is particularly important when physical examination does not take place, such as in a psychiatric consultation.

While I applaud Dr Jenkins' insight into the social behaviour of his patients, I surely hope that he wil also offer all his patients this critical human touch.

  • © British Journal of General Practice, 2007.

REFERENCES

  1. ↵
    1. Jenkins M
    (2007) The meaning of the handshake towards the end of the consultation. Br J Gen Pract 57:324.
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British Journal of General Practice: 57 (539)
British Journal of General Practice
Vol. 57, Issue 539
June 2007
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Handshakes and consultations
Stuart Sanders
British Journal of General Practice 2007; 57 (539): 500.

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British Journal of General Practice 2007; 57 (539): 500.
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