During a defense medical exam (DME), a legal nurse consultant (LNC) observes and records the entire examination process, making sure it is conducted fairly and impartially. They also record details such as the questions asked by the medical examiner, the patient’s answers, and any physical examinations that are performed. In essence, they provide a detailed report to the legal team, which may use it to contest the validity of the exam if necessary. Additionally, by acting as the patient’s representative, LNCs can ease the patient’s anxiety during the exam. Principal duties of an LNC in a DME: Seeing the examination, observing and documenting every step of the examination, including the questions asked of the patient, the actions of the medical examiner, and their answers.

Recording specifics:Taking detailed notes during the examination, noting everything pertinent on the patient’s behavior, physical condition