For a responsive patient with a medical problem, you will MOST likely form your working diagnosis based on information gathered during the:

The working diagnosis for a responsive patient with a medical problem is most effectively established during the history-taking process. This phase allows you to gather comprehensive information regarding the patient's medical history, present illness, and any associated symptoms. By engaging the patient in conversation, you can uncover critical details such as previous medical conditions, medications, allergies, and the timeline of their current issue.

The history-taking provides insights that help narrow down potential diagnoses and guides subsequent assessments and interventions. It is through this dialogue that you can identify red flags or factors that may influence the patient's condition, making it a key element in forming an accurate working diagnosis.

While primary assessments, general impressions, and detailed physical exams all contribute valuable information, they focus more on immediate physical findings and overall assessment rather than the nuanced understanding of the patient's condition that comes from a thorough history.