Ten Commandments for Effective Consultation

I. Determine the question to be answered

II. Establish urgency

III. Look for yourself (gather primary data)

IV. Be as brief as appropriate

V. Be specific

VI. Provide contingency plans

VII. Honor thy turf

VIII. Teach with tact

IX. Communicate directly with the team

X. Provide follow-up

source: Goldman L, Lee T, Rudd R (1983) Arch Intern Med 143; 1753-175