New York Times
By MICHAEL W. KAHN, M.D
Published: December 1, 2008
…. In the article, I described a common-sense method for spreading clinical courtesy that I call “etiquette-based medicine,” and I proposed a simple six-step checklist for doctors to follow when meeting a hospitalized patient for the first time: …
1. Ask permission to enter the room; wait for an answer.
2. Introduce yourself, showing ID badge.
3. Shake hands (wear glove if needed).
4. Sit down. Smile if appropriate.
5. Briefly explain your role on the team.
6. Ask the patient how he or she is feeling about being in the hospital.
Read more at: http://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/02/health/02etiq.html?_r=1&ref=health
Also read the original article in NEJM: Michael W. Kahn, M.D. NEJM. Volume 358:1988-1989