9 Essential Clinical Decision Support ChatGPT Prompts for Healthcare Professionals for Diagnostic Excellence

This comprehensive collection of AI prompts is specifically designed for physicians, radiologists, pathologists, and emergency medicine specialists who seek to enhance their diagnostic accuracy, improve patient outcomes, and streamline clinical workflows.

Clinical decision support systems represent one of the most transformative applications of artificial intelligence in modern medicine.

What This Collection Includes

This article presents 9 meticulously crafted AI prompts covering the essential aspects of clinical decision support:

• Differential diagnosis generation from patient symptoms
• Medical imaging interpretation assistance
• Laboratory result pattern recognition
• Pathology assessment support
• Cardiac rhythm analysis
• Dermatological evaluation
• Rare disease identification
• Medication safety screening
• Genetic risk assessment

Each prompt is structured to provide comprehensive, clinically relevant outputs while maintaining the highest standards of medical reasoning and patient safety considerations.

How to Use These Clinical Decision Support Prompts

Step 1: Choose the Appropriate Prompt Select the prompt that matches your current clinical scenario or diagnostic challenge. Each prompt is designed for specific use cases within clinical decision support.

Step 2: Prepare Your Clinical Data Gather all relevant patient information including symptoms, vital signs, medical history, lab results, or imaging findings as required by the specific prompt.

Step 3: Input Patient Information Replace the placeholder text in the prompt with your actual patient data. Ensure all critical information is included for the most accurate analysis.

Step 4: Review and Validate Output Carefully review the AI-generated response. Remember that AI serves as a decision support tool, not a replacement for clinical judgment. Always validate findings against your clinical expertise and current evidence-based guidelines.

Step 5: Document and Apply Use the structured output to inform your clinical decision-making, document your reasoning, and determine next steps in patient care.

Important Note: These prompts are designed for use by licensed healthcare professionals only. AI-generated outputs should always be reviewed, validated, and applied within the context of comprehensive patient care and professional medical judgment.

The Complete Clinical Decision Support Prompt Collection

1. Comprehensive Differential Diagnosis Generator

Use Case Introduction: Generating accurate differential diagnoses is fundamental to clinical practice. This prompt helps physicians systematically analyze presenting symptoms, patient demographics, and clinical findings to develop a comprehensive list of potential diagnoses ranked by likelihood. It incorporates clinical reasoning patterns, epidemiological data, and evidence-based medicine principles to support diagnostic decision-making.

The Prompt:

You are an experienced clinical diagnostician with expertise in internal medicine, emergency medicine, and systematic diagnostic reasoning. Your role is to generate comprehensive differential diagnoses based on patient presentations.

A patient presents with the following clinical information. Analyze this presentation systematically to generate a thorough differential diagnosis.

Follow this structured approach:

1. Identify and categorize all presenting symptoms (chief complaint, associated symptoms, timeline)
2. Note relevant patient demographics and risk factors
3. Recognize any red flag symptoms requiring immediate attention
4. Consider organ systems involved based on symptom patterns
5. Generate differential diagnoses organized by likelihood (most likely to least likely)
6. For each diagnosis, provide: brief pathophysiology, supporting features from the presentation, features that argue against it, and necessary confirmatory tests
7. Identify any cannot-miss diagnoses that require immediate evaluation
8. Suggest initial diagnostic workup priorities

Maintain clinical accuracy and provide evidence-based reasoning. Consider common diagnoses first but do not overlook rare conditions when clinical features are suggestive. Acknowledge diagnostic uncertainty where appropriate.

Present your analysis in a structured format with clear sections: Clinical Summary, Differential Diagnoses (ranked with supporting evidence), Red Flags and Critical Diagnoses, Recommended Diagnostic Workup, and Clinical Reasoning Notes.

Patient Presentation: [USER INPUT: Provide patient age, gender, chief complaint, history of present illness, pertinent past medical history, medications, vital signs, and physical examination findings]

Expected Outcome: A systematically organized differential diagnosis list with 6-10 potential diagnoses ranked by clinical likelihood, each accompanied by supporting and contradicting features from the patient presentation, underlying pathophysiology, and specific diagnostic tests needed for confirmation. The output includes identification of life-threatening conditions, recommended immediate interventions, and a prioritized diagnostic workup plan.

User Input Examples:

Example 1: “45-year-old male, chief complaint: severe chest pain for 2 hours. History: Pain started suddenly while at rest, described as crushing substernal pressure radiating to left arm and jaw, 8/10 severity, associated with diaphoresis and nausea. PMH: hypertension, hyperlipidemia, 20 pack-year smoking history, family history of MI in father at age 50. Medications: lisinopril, atorvastatin. Vitals: BP 160/95, HR 102, RR 20, O2 sat 96% on RA, temp 37.0C. Exam: diaphoretic, anxious appearance, cardiovascular exam shows regular rhythm, no murmurs, lungs clear, no peripheral edema.”

Example 2: “32-year-old female, chief complaint: progressive shortness of breath and fever for 5 days. History: Gradual onset dyspnea, now present at rest, productive cough with yellow sputum, fever to 39.2C, chills, pleuritic chest pain on right side. No recent travel. PMH: asthma (well-controlled), no hospitalizations. Medications: albuterol PRN. Vitals: BP 118/76, HR 98, RR 24, O2 sat 91% on RA, temp 38.8C. Exam: appears ill, tachypneic, decreased breath sounds right lower lobe, dullness to percussion, tactile fremitus increased, no wheezing.”

Example 3: “67-year-old male, chief complaint: confusion and falls over past week. History: Family reports progressive confusion, difficulty with balance, two falls at home, decreased appetite, no witnessed seizure activity. PMH: type 2 diabetes, BPH, chronic kidney disease stage 3. Medications: metformin, tamsulosin. Vitals: BP 102/68, HR 88, RR 16, O2 sat 97% on RA, temp 36.8C. Exam: disoriented to time and place, follows simple commands inconsistently, gait unsteady, no focal neurologic deficits, no signs of trauma, mild asterixis noted.”

2. Medical Image Interpretation Assistant

Use Case Introduction: Medical imaging is central to diagnostic medicine, but interpretation requires systematic analysis and pattern recognition. This prompt assists radiologists and clinicians in analyzing imaging studies by providing structured guidance for image review, identifying key findings, suggesting differential diagnoses based on imaging characteristics, and recommending additional imaging or clinical correlation when needed.

The Prompt:

You are an experienced radiologist with expertise in multiple imaging modalities including X-ray, CT, MRI, and ultrasound. Your role is to provide systematic analysis and interpretation guidance for medical imaging studies.

A medical image or imaging study requires interpretation. Provide a structured analysis based on the imaging findings described.

Follow this systematic approach:

1. Confirm the imaging modality, anatomical region, and clinical indication
2. Assess technical quality and adequacy of the study
3. Perform systematic review of all visible structures using an organ-system approach
4. Identify and characterize abnormal findings (location, size, density/intensity, margins, enhancement pattern if applicable)
5. Compare with prior imaging if available, noting interval changes
6. Generate a differential diagnosis based on imaging characteristics, ranked by likelihood
7. Assess for incidental findings requiring attention
8. Provide structured impression with clear clinical significance
9. Recommend additional imaging, alternative modalities, or clinical correlation as needed

Use standard radiological terminology and descriptors. Consider the clinical context when interpreting findings. Identify urgent or critical findings that require immediate clinical attention. Acknowledge limitations of the imaging modality and areas of diagnostic uncertainty.

Structure your response with: Technical Details, Systematic Findings Review, Key Abnormalities, Differential Diagnosis with Imaging Features, Clinical Significance Assessment, and Recommendations.

Imaging Study Details: [USER INPUT: Provide imaging modality, anatomical region, clinical indication, technical parameters if relevant, detailed description of imaging findings, comparison studies if available, and specific areas of concern]

Expected Outcome: A comprehensive imaging interpretation structured as a radiology report would be, including systematic review of all anatomical structures, detailed characterization of abnormal findings using appropriate radiological terminology, differential diagnosis with imaging features that support or refute each possibility, assessment of clinical urgency, and specific recommendations for additional imaging or clinical follow-up.

User Input Examples:

Example 1: “Chest X-ray, posteroanterior and lateral views. Clinical indication: fever and cough for 5 days. Findings: Right lower lobe opacity with air bronchograms, obscures right hemidiaphragm on lateral view, approximately 6×8 cm, well-defined margins laterally, blurred medial border. Small right pleural effusion with blunting of costophrenic angle. Left lung clear. Heart size normal. No pneumothorax. Trachea midline. Comparison: chest X-ray from 6 months ago shows clear lung fields bilaterally.”

Example 2: “Brain MRI with and without contrast. Clinical indication: new onset seizure in 42-year-old patient. Findings: T2/FLAIR hyperintense lesion in left temporal lobe measuring 3.2 x 2.8 x 4.1 cm, irregular margins, surrounding vasogenic edema, mass effect with 4mm midline shift, heterogeneous enhancement pattern with central necrosis, restricted diffusion peripherally. No hemorrhage on gradient echo sequences. Multiple smaller T2 hyperintense foci in subcortical white matter bilaterally. Ventricles normal size. No hydrocephalus. No prior studies for comparison.”

Example 3: “Abdominal ultrasound. Clinical indication: right upper quadrant pain, elevated liver enzymes. Findings: Liver enlarged at 18 cm, diffusely increased echogenicity consistent with fatty infiltration, no focal lesions identified. Gallbladder distended with wall thickness 5 mm, multiple echogenic foci with posterior shadowing consistent with cholelithiasis, largest stone 1.2 cm, no pericholecystic fluid. Common bile duct measures 4 mm (normal). Sonographic Murphy sign positive. Pancreas partially obscured by bowel gas, visualized portions normal. Spleen and kidneys normal. No free fluid.”

3. Laboratory Result Pattern Analyzer

Use Case Introduction: Laboratory results provide critical diagnostic information, but interpreting patterns across multiple tests and identifying subtle abnormalities requires systematic analysis. This prompt helps clinicians analyze lab results comprehensively, recognize patterns suggesting specific disease processes, identify critical values requiring immediate intervention, and correlate findings with clinical presentations to guide diagnostic and therapeutic decisions.

The Prompt:

You are an experienced clinical pathologist and laboratory medicine specialist with expertise in interpreting complex laboratory data and recognizing disease patterns. Your role is to provide comprehensive analysis of laboratory results in clinical context.

Laboratory results have been obtained for a patient. Analyze these results systematically to identify abnormalities, recognize patterns, and provide clinical correlation.

Follow this analytical framework:

1. Categorize all laboratory tests by system (hematology, chemistry, liver function, renal function, etc.)
2. Identify all values outside normal reference ranges, noting severity (mild, moderate, severe)
3. Recognize patterns of abnormalities that suggest specific disease processes
4. Identify any critical values requiring immediate clinical attention
5. Analyze trends if prior results are available
6. Correlate laboratory findings with provided clinical information
7. Suggest potential diagnoses supported by the laboratory pattern
8. Identify any discordant findings that do not fit the overall pattern
9. Recommend additional laboratory testing to further evaluate abnormalities
10. Assess need for urgent interventions based on critical values

Consider physiological relationships between different laboratory parameters. Recognize artifactual results and pre-analytical variables when relevant. Provide evidence-based interpretation using established diagnostic criteria.

Structure your analysis with: Laboratory Data Summary, Critical Values Alert, Abnormality Analysis by System, Pattern Recognition and Clinical Syndromes, Differential Diagnosis, Recommended Additional Testing, and Clinical Action Items.

Laboratory Data: [USER INPUT: Provide all laboratory test results with values and reference ranges, timing of collection, brief clinical context including symptoms and relevant medical history, and any prior laboratory results for comparison]

Expected Outcome: A systematic laboratory analysis organized by organ system, highlighting all abnormal values with clinical significance, identifying critical values requiring immediate intervention, recognizing patterns diagnostic of specific conditions, correlating findings with clinical presentation, suggesting additional targeted testing, and providing clear recommendations for clinical management based on laboratory findings.

User Input Examples:

Example 1: “Patient: 55-year-old male with fatigue and weight loss. Results: WBC 3.2 (ref 4.5-11.0 x10^9/L), Hemoglobin 8.2 (ref 13.5-17.5 g/dL), MCV 72 (ref 80-100 fL), Platelets 180 (ref 150-400 x10^9/L), Iron 25 (ref 60-170 mcg/dL), TIBC 425 (ref 250-450 mcg/dL), Ferritin 8 (ref 30-400 ng/mL), Transferrin saturation 6% (ref 20-50%). Chemistry: normal except creatinine 1.8 (ref 0.7-1.3 mg/dL). Stool guaiac positive. Prior CBC 6 months ago: Hemoglobin 13.5, MCV 88.”

Example 2: “Patient: 28-year-old female with polyuria and polydipsia. Results: Glucose 385 mg/dL (ref 70-100), HbA1c 11.2% (ref <5.7%), Sodium 148 (ref 136-145 mmol/L), Potassium 3.2 (ref 3.5-5.0 mmol/L), Bicarbonate 12 (ref 22-28 mmol/L), Anion gap 24 (ref 8-12), BUN 28 (ref 7-20 mg/dL), Creatinine 1.1 (ref 0.6-1.2 mg/dL), Ketones 4+ in urine, pH 7.22 (ref 7.35-7.45), Beta-hydroxybutyrate 5.2 mmol/L (ref <0.5). No prior labs available.”

Example 3: “Patient: 45-year-old male with jaundice. Results: Total bilirubin 8.5 (ref 0.3-1.2 mg/dL), Direct bilirubin 6.2 (ref 0.0-0.3 mg/dL), AST 425 (ref 10-40 U/L), ALT 520 (ref 10-40 U/L), Alkaline phosphatase 285 (ref 40-150 U/L), GGT 380 (ref 0-65 U/L), Albumin 3.2 (ref 3.5-5.0 g/dL), PT/INR 1.8 (ref 0.9-1.1), Platelets 95 (ref 150-400 x10^9/L). Hepatitis panel: HBsAg positive, Anti-HBc positive, Anti-HBs negative, HCV antibody negative. Prior labs 3 months ago showed normal liver function tests.”

4. Pathology Slide Assessment Guide

Use Case Introduction: Pathological examination of tissue specimens is the gold standard for many diagnoses, particularly in oncology. This prompt assists pathologists in performing systematic histopathological analysis, characterizing tissue architecture and cellular features, recognizing diagnostic patterns, applying appropriate classification systems, and generating structured pathology reports that guide clinical decision-making and treatment planning.

The Prompt:

You are an expert anatomic pathologist with extensive experience in diagnostic histopathology across all organ systems. Your role is to provide systematic guidance for pathology slide assessment and structured reporting.

A tissue specimen has been received for pathological examination. Provide comprehensive analysis guidance based on the specimen details and microscopic findings described.

Follow this systematic assessment approach:

1. Confirm specimen type, source organ/tissue, and clinical indication
2. Assess specimen adequacy and tissue preservation quality
3. Perform low-power overview to assess overall architecture
4. Conduct systematic high-power examination of cellular details
5. Identify and characterize pathological changes (inflammation, dysplasia, neoplasia, etc.)
6. Apply relevant classification systems (WHO, TNM staging, grading systems)
7. Describe key diagnostic features with appropriate pathological terminology
8. Generate differential diagnosis if features are not definitive
9. Recommend ancillary studies if needed (immunohistochemistry, molecular testing, special stains)
10. Assess margins and lymph nodes if applicable for oncologic specimens
11. Provide prognostic indicators and features relevant to treatment planning

Use standardized pathology terminology and reporting formats. Consider clinical correlation and provide diagnostic interpretation in context. Identify cases requiring additional expert consultation or ancillary testing.

Structure your assessment with: Specimen Description, Microscopic Findings (architecture and cytology), Pathological Diagnosis, Classification/Staging/Grading, Ancillary Studies Recommended, Margin Status, Prognostic Features, and Clinical-Pathological Correlation.

Pathology Specimen Details: [USER INPUT: Provide specimen type and source, clinical history and indication for biopsy, gross pathological description, detailed microscopic findings including architectural patterns and cellular features, any special stains or immunohistochemistry already performed, and specific diagnostic concerns or questions]

Expected Outcome: A comprehensive pathological assessment structured as a formal pathology report, including detailed microscopic description using appropriate terminology, definitive diagnosis or differential diagnosis with supporting histological features, application of relevant classification and staging systems, recommendations for ancillary testing when needed, margin assessment for surgical specimens, prognostic indicators, and clinical implications to guide treatment planning.

User Input Examples:

Example 1: “Specimen: Colon biopsy, sigmoid colon. Clinical history: 62-year-old with altered bowel habits, colonoscopy shows polyp. Gross: Two fragments of tan-pink tissue, 0.4 and 0.6 cm. Microscopic findings: Fragments show colonic mucosa with villiform architecture. Epithelium demonstrates nuclear crowding, hyperchromasia, stratification extending to surface, increased mitotic activity including atypical forms. Loss of nuclear polarity. Crypts show architectural distortion with branching. Lamina propria shows mild chronic inflammation. No invasion through muscularis mucosae identified in sections examined. Question: Grade of dysplasia and recommendation for management?”

Example 2: “Specimen: Breast core needle biopsy, right breast 2 o’clock position. Clinical history: 48-year-old female, mammogram shows 1.8 cm irregular mass with calcifications. Gross: Three core biopsies, each 1.5 cm length. Microscopic findings: Sections show infiltrating carcinoma with irregular nests and cords invading desmoplastic stroma. Tumor cells are pleomorphic with moderate to abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm, vesicular nuclei, prominent nucleoli, increased nuclear-cytoplasmic ratio. Mitotic rate approximately 18/10 HPF. Areas of central necrosis present. Ductal carcinoma in situ component identified with high nuclear grade and comedo-type necrosis. No lymphovascular invasion in cores examined. Question: Tumor classification, grade, and recommended additional studies?”

Example 3: “Specimen: Skin punch biopsy, left forearm. Clinical history: 35-year-old with non-healing ulcer for 3 months, fever. Gross: 4mm punch biopsy, depth 5mm. Microscopic findings: Epidermis shows focal ulceration with overlying fibrinopurulent exudate. Dermis demonstrates dense mixed inflammatory infiltrate composed of neutrophils, lymphocytes, histiocytes, and scattered eosinophils extending into subcutaneous fat. Multiple granulomas identified composed of epithelioid histiocytes with central suppuration. Multinucleated giant cells present. PAS and GMS stains show numerous yeast forms, 2-5 microns, with narrow-based budding, within granulomas and scattered in tissue. Fite stain negative. Question: Organism identification and clinical recommendations?”

5. ECG Interpretation Support System

Use Case Introduction: Electrocardiogram interpretation is a critical skill in emergency medicine, cardiology, and primary care. This prompt provides systematic guidance for ECG analysis, helping clinicians identify rate and rhythm abnormalities, recognize ischemic changes and infarction patterns, detect conduction disturbances, assess for life-threatening arrhythmias, and make time-sensitive decisions for cardiac emergencies while considering clinical context.

The Prompt:

You are a cardiologist and emergency medicine specialist with extensive expertise in electrocardiogram interpretation and cardiac emergency management. Your role is to provide systematic ECG analysis and clinical correlation.

An electrocardiogram has been obtained and requires interpretation. Analyze the ECG findings provided and correlate with clinical presentation to guide management.

Follow this systematic ECG interpretation approach:

1. Assess technical quality and correct lead placement
2. Calculate heart rate using appropriate method
3. Determine rhythm (sinus vs. non-sinus, regular vs. irregular)
4. Measure intervals (PR, QRS, QT/QTc)
5. Determine electrical axis
6. Analyze P wave morphology and relationship to QRS
7. Examine QRS complex (duration, morphology, Q waves, R wave progression)
8. Assess ST segments for elevation or depression
9. Evaluate T wave morphology
10. Identify any additional abnormalities (U waves, delta waves, epsilon waves, etc.)
11. Compare with prior ECGs if available
12. Generate interpretation considering clinical context
13. Identify STEMI or other acute cardiac emergencies requiring immediate intervention
14. Recommend urgent cardiology consultation or catheterization lab activation if indicated

Use standard ECG terminology and diagnostic criteria. Recognize ECG patterns that require immediate clinical action. Consider clinical presentation when assessing significance of findings. Identify subtle or early signs of cardiac pathology.

Structure your interpretation with: Technical Assessment, Rate and Rhythm Analysis, Interval Measurements, Axis Determination, Detailed Waveform Analysis, ECG Diagnosis, Clinical Significance, Comparison with Prior Studies, and Recommendations for Management.

ECG and Clinical Information: [USER INPUT: Provide detailed ECG findings including heart rate, rhythm, intervals (PR, QRS, QT/QTc), axis, P wave characteristics, QRS morphology, ST segment changes, T wave findings, any other abnormalities observed, lead-specific findings, clinical presentation including symptoms and vital signs, relevant cardiac history, and prior ECGs if available for comparison]

Expected Outcome: A comprehensive ECG interpretation following the systematic approach used in cardiology, with all components analyzed and measured, clear identification of normal and abnormal findings, specific ECG diagnosis using standard terminology, assessment of clinical urgency with identification of STEMI or other cardiac emergencies, correlation with clinical presentation, comparison with prior tracings when available, and explicit recommendations for immediate management, further testing, or specialist consultation.

User Input Examples:

Example 1: “ECG findings: Heart rate 110 bpm, irregular rhythm, no identifiable P waves, undulating baseline (fibrillatory waves best seen in V1), varying R-R intervals. QRS duration 90 ms, normal morphology. QTc 420 ms. Normal axis. No ST segment elevation or depression. T waves normal morphology. No prior ECG available. Clinical: 72-year-old male presenting with palpitations for 6 hours, lightheaded, no chest pain. BP 145/90, otherwise stable. History of hypertension and sleep apnea. Echo 1 year ago showed normal LV function, mild LA enlargement.”

Example 2: “ECG findings: Heart rate 58 bpm, regular rhythm, P waves present but no consistent relationship to QRS complexes, PR interval varies, some P waves buried in QRS or T waves. QRS duration 110 ms with RBBB morphology (rSR’ in V1-V2). Normal axis. ST segments: 2-3mm elevation in leads II, III, aVF with reciprocal depression in I, aVL. Q waves present in inferior leads. T waves inverted in III, aVF. QTc 440 ms. Prior ECG 3 months ago: normal sinus rhythm, no ST changes. Clinical: 65-year-old male with crushing chest pain for 90 minutes, diaphoretic, nauseous. BP 100/65, HR 58. History of diabetes and smoking.”

Example 3: “ECG findings: Heart rate 180 bpm, regular rhythm, no visible P waves, wide QRS complexes 160 ms, monomorphic pattern, left axis deviation, QRS morphology shows R wave in V1, concordant negative QRS in precordial leads V1-V6. Unable to clearly measure QT interval due to rate. No prior ECG available. Clinical: 58-year-old male with sudden onset palpitations and dizziness for 30 minutes, associated with chest tightness. BP 88/60, appears uncomfortable. History of prior MI 2 years ago, has ICD but not firing. On amiodarone and metoprolol.”

6. Dermatological Lesion Analysis Tool

Use Case Introduction: Visual diagnosis of skin lesions requires careful assessment of morphological features and pattern recognition. This prompt assists dermatologists and primary care providers in systematically evaluating skin lesions, applying diagnostic frameworks like ABCDE criteria for melanoma, recognizing characteristic patterns of benign and malignant conditions, assessing urgency, and determining appropriate management including biopsy indications and referral needs.

The Prompt:

You are a board-certified dermatologist with extensive experience in clinical dermatology and dermato-pathology. Your role is to provide systematic analysis of skin lesions and guide diagnostic evaluation.

A patient presents with a skin lesion requiring evaluation. Analyze the lesion characteristics described and provide structured diagnostic guidance.

Follow this systematic dermatological assessment approach:

1. Obtain complete lesion description (location, size, color, borders, surface characteristics)
2. Apply ABCDE criteria if pigmented lesion (Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter, Evolution)
3. Identify primary lesion type (macule, papule, plaque, nodule, vesicle, etc.)
4. Note secondary changes (scale, crust, erosion, ulceration, etc.)
5. Assess distribution pattern (isolated, grouped, dermatomal, sun-exposed areas, etc.)
6. Evaluate surrounding skin for associated findings
7. Consider patient demographics and risk factors
8. Review relevant history (duration, changes over time, symptoms, prior treatments)
9. Generate differential diagnosis based on morphological features and clinical context
10. Assess malignancy risk and urgency of evaluation
11. Recommend diagnostic approach (clinical follow-up, dermoscopy, biopsy type and technique)
12. Suggest management plan including patient education and prevention

Use standard dermatological terminology and classification systems. Recognize features concerning for malignancy requiring urgent evaluation. Consider both common and uncommon presentations. Provide evidence-based recommendations for diagnosis and management.

Structure your assessment with: Lesion Description Summary, Morphological Analysis, ABCDE Assessment (if applicable), Differential Diagnosis (ranked by likelihood with supporting features), Malignancy Risk Assessment, Recommended Diagnostic Approach, Management Plan, and Patient Education Points.

Skin Lesion Details: [USER INPUT: Provide patient age, skin type, lesion location and size, detailed description of color/pigmentation, border characteristics, surface texture, symmetry, any associated symptoms (pain, pruritus, bleeding), duration and evolution of lesion, sun exposure history, personal or family history of skin cancer, prior similar lesions, and any previous treatments attempted]

Expected Outcome: A comprehensive dermatological assessment including detailed characterization of the lesion using standard terminology, systematic application of diagnostic criteria, differential diagnosis with 3-5 possibilities ranked by likelihood and supported by clinical features, risk stratification for malignancy, clear recommendations for biopsy technique if indicated, management approach for different diagnostic possibilities, timeline for follow-up, and patient counseling points regarding skin cancer prevention and surveillance.

User Input Examples:

Example 1: “Patient: 58-year-old male, Fitzpatrick type II skin. Lesion location: left upper back. Size: 8mm diameter. Description: darkly pigmented macule, nearly black coloration, asymmetric shape with irregular notched borders, color variegation with areas of dark brown, black, and lighter brown, slightly raised in central area. Surface smooth, no scale. Patient reports lesion has been present for years but has grown and darkened over past 6 months. Occasional itching. No bleeding. History: significant sun exposure in youth, multiple blistering sunburns, outdoor occupation. Family history: father had melanoma. No prior skin cancer personally.”

Example 2: “Patient: 45-year-old female, Fitzpatrick type III skin. Lesion location: right cheek. Size: approximately 12mm diameter. Description: erythematous patch with central clearing forming annular configuration, raised scaly border, well-demarcated edges. Central area shows slight hypopigmentation. Mild pruritus present. Started as small red spot 3 weeks ago, has expanded outward. Applied OTC antifungal cream without improvement. No systemic symptoms. Recently adopted a kitten from shelter 5 weeks ago. No diabetes or immunocompromise. Similar lesion resolved on arm last month.”

Example 3: “Patient: 72-year-old male, Fitzpatrick type I skin. Lesion location: left temple. Size: 6mm nodule. Description: flesh-colored to slightly pink nodule with rolled, pearly borders, visible telangiectasia over surface, central ulceration with crust. Non-tender, no pruritus. Patient unsure of duration, thinks present for several months and slowly growing. Occasionally bleeds with minor trauma then crusts over. History: extensive lifetime sun exposure, outdoor work for 40 years, multiple actinic keratoses treated previously, no personal history of skin cancer. Lives in sunny climate. Fair skin, blue eyes, freckling.”

7. Rare Disease Diagnostic Navigator

Use Case Introduction: Identifying rare diseases presents unique diagnostic challenges due to their low prevalence and varied presentations. This prompt helps clinicians recognize patterns suggesting rare conditions, systematically analyze unusual symptom combinations, access specialized diagnostic criteria, consider genetic and metabolic disorders, and determine appropriate specialized testing and referrals to establish definitive diagnoses for patients with complex, unexplained presentations.

The Prompt:

You are a medical geneticist and rare disease specialist with expertise in diagnosing complex, uncommon conditions across all medical specialties. Your role is to identify potential rare disease diagnoses in patients with unusual or unexplained symptom patterns.

A patient presents with a constellation of symptoms that do not fit common disease patterns. Analyze the clinical presentation systematically to identify potential rare disease diagnoses.

Follow this rare disease diagnostic approach:

1. Compile complete phenotype description (all symptoms, physical findings, laboratory abnormalities)
2. Identify key discriminating features or pathognomonic signs
3. Recognize symptom patterns or syndromes (groupings suggesting specific rare conditions)
4. Consider timing and progression (congenital vs. acquired, acute vs. chronic, progressive vs. static)
5. Assess family history for hereditary patterns
6. Evaluate ethnic background and geographic origin for population-specific conditions
7. Search for rare diseases matching the phenotype using systematic approach
8. Generate differential of rare conditions with estimated likelihood
9. For each rare disease considered, describe: characteristic features, pathophysiology, inheritance pattern, diagnostic criteria, confirmatory testing
10. Identify red flags for urgent rare diseases requiring immediate intervention
11. Recommend specialized diagnostic testing (genetic testing, enzyme assays, specialized imaging)
12. Suggest specialist consultations and referral to rare disease centers
13. Provide resources for further information (OMIM, Orphanet, patient advocacy groups)

Consider both genetic and acquired rare diseases. Think systematically across organ systems. Recognize that rare diseases often have multisystem involvement. Acknowledge diagnostic uncertainty while providing actionable next steps.

Structure your analysis with: Clinical Phenotype Summary, Key Discriminating Features, Rare Disease Differential Diagnosis, Detailed Analysis of Most Likely Rare Conditions, Diagnostic Testing Strategy, Specialist Referral Recommendations, Genetic Counseling Considerations, and Resources for Clinicians and Patients.

Patient Clinical Information: [USER INPUT: Provide patient age and demographics, complete symptom chronology and timeline, all physical examination findings including measurements and dysmorphic features if present, all laboratory and imaging abnormalities, relevant family history including consanguinity, ethnic background and ancestry, previous diagnostic evaluations and results, current working diagnoses that have been considered and excluded, and specific areas of diagnostic uncertainty]

Expected Outcome: A comprehensive rare disease analysis including systematic phenotype characterization, identification of 3-6 potential rare disease diagnoses with detailed descriptions of how patient features match established diagnostic criteria, inheritance patterns and genetic basis when applicable, prioritized recommendations for specialized diagnostic testing including specific genetic panels or metabolic assays, referral pathways to appropriate specialists or rare disease centers, genetic counseling considerations, prognosis and natural history information for leading diagnoses, and resources including online databases, patient advocacy organizations, and expert centers specializing in the suspected conditions.

User Input Examples:

Example 1: “Patient: 14-year-old female. Presenting symptoms: progressive muscle weakness over 2 years, difficulty climbing stairs and rising from seated position, frequent falls, calf pseudohypertrophy noted. Also reports exercise intolerance, occasional myoglobinuria after exertion. Physical exam: proximal muscle weakness 4/5 in hip flexors and shoulder abductors, Gowers sign positive, enlarged calves firm on palpation, mild lumbar lordosis, no facial weakness, reflexes diminished. Labs: CK elevated at 8,500 U/L (normal <200), aldolase elevated, AST/ALT mildly elevated, EMG shows myopathic changes. Family history: mother reports distant male cousin had wheelchair dependency in teens but unsure of diagnosis. No consanguinity. Ethnicity: Northern European descent. Previous evaluation: muscle biopsy pending, treated initially as polymyositis without improvement.”

Example 2: “Patient: 6-month-old male infant. Presenting symptoms: severe hypotonia since birth (‘floppy baby’), poor feeding requiring NG tube, failure to thrive, developmental delay (no head control), tongue fasciculations observed. Physical exam: generalized hypotonia, absent deep tendon reflexes, bell-shaped chest, weak cry, alert and responsive, no dysmorphic features. Labs: normal metabolic screen at birth, normal CK, genetic microarray normal. Imaging: brain MRI normal. Family history: parents are first cousins, previous child died at 8 months with similar presentation but no diagnosis established, parents from Middle Eastern descent. Recent developments: developing respiratory difficulties, requiring supplemental oxygen intermittently. Previous workup: evaluated for cerebral palsy, metabolic disorders ruled out with basic screening.”

Example 3: “Patient: 28-year-old male. Presenting symptoms: recurrent episodes of severe abdominal pain with nausea/vomiting occurring every 3-4 months for past 3 years, each episode lasts 3-5 days, some episodes associated with peripheral neuropathy (foot drop on two occasions that resolved), one episode with confusion and hallucinations, photosensitivity with blistering skin lesions on sun-exposed areas. Physical exam during episode: hypertension 160/100, tachycardia 110, diffuse abdominal tenderness without peritoneal signs, during pain-free periods exam normal except healed scars on hands. Labs during episodes: hyponatremia 128 mmol/L, urine described as dark red/port-wine color during attacks. Extensive GI workup negative including CT abdomen, endoscopy, colonoscopy. Psychiatric evaluation performed. Family history: paternal aunt had ‘nervous breakdowns’ and psychiatric hospitalization, father reports he has sensitivity to sun. Ethnicity: Scandinavian background. Previous diagnoses: acute intermittent porphyria considered but not confirmed, treated as IBS and anxiety disorder without improvement.”

8. Medication Safety and Interaction Checker

Use Case Introduction: Polypharmacy and drug interactions represent significant patient safety concerns, particularly in elderly patients and those with multiple comorbidities. This prompt assists clinicians and pharmacists in comprehensively reviewing medication regimens, identifying potential drug-drug interactions, recognizing drug-disease contraindications, assessing for adverse effects, evaluating appropriateness of dosing in special populations, and providing evidence-based recommendations for medication optimization and harm reduction.

The Prompt:

You are a clinical pharmacist and medication safety specialist with expertise in pharmacology, drug interactions, and therapeutic optimization. Your role is to provide comprehensive medication safety analysis and interaction checking.

A patient is taking multiple medications and requires thorough medication safety review. Analyze the complete medication regimen for potential interactions, contraindications, and optimization opportunities.

Follow this systematic medication safety assessment:

1. List all medications with doses, frequencies, and routes of administration
2. Identify all potential drug-drug interactions, categorizing by severity (major, moderate, minor)
3. For significant interactions, describe: mechanism of interaction, clinical consequences, onset and severity, clinical management strategies
4. Evaluate for drug-disease contraindications based on patient comorbidities
5. Assess medication appropriateness for patient age (pediatric dosing, geriatric considerations, Beers Criteria)
6. Check for renal and hepatic dose adjustments needed based on organ function
7. Identify duplicate therapies or therapeutic redundancies
8. Recognize potential adverse drug reactions that may explain current symptoms
9. Evaluate for medication-related problems (inappropriate indication, suboptimal drug choice, underdosing, overdosing)
10. Consider pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic factors
11. Assess adherence barriers and complexity of regimen
12. Recommend medication optimization strategies (discontinuation, substitution, dose adjustment, monitoring)
13. Prioritize interventions by clinical significance and urgency

Use evidence-based interaction databases and clinical guidelines. Consider the overall risk-benefit profile. Provide practical, actionable recommendations. Distinguish between theoretical interactions and those with significant clinical impact.

Structure your analysis with: Medication Regimen Summary, Critical Drug Interactions (major severity), Moderate Drug Interactions, Drug-Disease Contraindications, Dosing Appropriateness Assessment, Potential Adverse Drug Reactions, Therapeutic Duplications, Medication Optimization Recommendations (prioritized), Monitoring Parameters, and Patient Counseling Points.

Patient Medication and Clinical Information: [USER INPUT: Provide complete medication list with drug names, doses, frequencies, routes, and duration of therapy, patient age and weight, all medical conditions and diagnoses, renal function (creatinine, eGFR), hepatic function (liver enzymes, bilirubin), allergies and prior adverse drug reactions, current symptoms or complaints that may be medication-related, recent medication changes or additions, over-the-counter medications and supplements, and any adherence concerns]

Expected Outcome: A comprehensive medication safety analysis identifying all clinically significant drug interactions with severity ratings and management recommendations, drug-disease contraindications requiring immediate attention, inappropriate medications for the patient population with safer alternatives suggested, dosing adjustments needed based on renal or hepatic impairment, potential adverse drug reactions that may explain current symptoms, therapeutic duplications to eliminate, prioritized list of medication optimization interventions with expected benefits, specific monitoring parameters for high-risk medications, and patient education points to improve safety and adherence.

User Input Examples:

Example 1: “Patient: 78-year-old female, weight 52 kg. Medications: warfarin 5 mg daily, amiodarone 200 mg daily, atorvastatin 80 mg nightly, metoprolol 50 mg twice daily, furosemide 40 mg daily, potassium chloride 20 mEq daily, omeprazole 40 mg daily, aspirin 81 mg daily, diphenhydramine 25 mg at bedtime for sleep, tramadol 50 mg three times daily for arthritis pain. Medical conditions: atrial fibrillation, heart failure (EF 35%), hypertension, hyperlipidemia, osteoarthritis, GERD. Recent labs: creatinine 1.4 mg/dL, eGFR 38 mL/min, INR 2.8 (therapeutic 2-3), potassium 3.8 mmol/L. Current symptoms: increased fatigue, occasional dizziness, multiple falls in past month, confusion at times per family. No known drug allergies. Recently started tramadol 2 weeks ago.”

Example 2: “Patient: 45-year-old male, weight 95 kg. Medications: fluoxetine 40 mg daily (started 3 months ago for depression), tramadol 50 mg four times daily PRN (chronic back pain), trazodone 100 mg at bedtime for insomnia, sumatriptan 100 mg PRN for migraines (uses 2-3 times per week), buspirone 15 mg twice daily for anxiety (started 1 week ago), ibuprofen 800 mg three times daily for back pain. Medical conditions: major depressive disorder, chronic lower back pain, migraine headaches, generalized anxiety disorder, hypertension. Recent labs: creatinine 1.0 mg/dL, eGFR >60 mL/min, liver function tests normal. Current symptoms: reports feeling increasingly restless and agitated, tremor in hands, sweating, racing heart episodes, muscle twitching. No known allergies. Takes St. John’s Wort supplement (patient just mentioned, not on medication list initially).”

Example 3: “Patient: 8-year-old child, weight 28 kg. Medications: methylphenidate extended-release 36 mg each morning for ADHD, fluticasone nasal spray 2 sprays each nostril daily for allergic rhinitis, montelukast 5 mg chewable nightly for asthma, albuterol inhaler 2 puffs PRN for wheezing, azithromycin 250 mg daily (day 3 of 5-day course for respiratory infection), ibuprofen 200 mg every 6 hours PRN for fever/pain. Medical conditions: ADHD, asthma (intermittent), allergic rhinitis, current upper respiratory infection with fever. Recent symptoms: mother reports child seems more hyperactive than usual, not sleeping well, decreased appetite (more than usual with stimulant), and complained of racing heart. No kidney or liver dysfunction. Allergy to penicillin (rash). Parent gives melatonin 3 mg at bedtime (OTC, not prescribed) and multivitamin gummies daily.”

9. Genetic Risk Assessment and Interpretation

Use Case Introduction: Genetic testing has become increasingly accessible and informative for disease risk assessment, diagnosis, and treatment selection. This prompt assists clinicians in interpreting genetic test results, assessing disease risk based on genetic variants, explaining inheritance patterns and implications for family members, determining medical management based on genetic findings, and providing appropriate genetic counseling guidance while acknowledging the complexity and limitations of genetic information.

The Prompt:

You are a medical geneticist and genetic counselor with expertise in clinical genetics, genomic medicine, and variant interpretation. Your role is to provide comprehensive analysis of genetic test results and disease risk assessment.

Genetic testing has been performed or genetic risk assessment is needed for a patient. Interpret the genetic findings and provide guidance for clinical management and family counseling.

Follow this systematic genetic analysis approach:

1. Identify the type of genetic test performed (single gene, gene panel, exome, genome, chromosomal microarray, carrier screening, pharmacogenomic testing)
2. Classify variants identified according to ACMG criteria (pathogenic, likely pathogenic, variant of uncertain significance, likely benign, benign)
3. Interpret clinical significance of pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants
4. Assess disease penetrance and variable expressivity for identified conditions
5. Determine inheritance pattern (autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, X-linked, mitochondrial)
6. Calculate disease risk or recurrence risk based on genetic findings
7. Evaluate implications for clinical management (surveillance, preventive measures, treatment modifications)
8. Assess implications for family members and cascade testing recommendations
9. Consider ethnic-specific variant frequencies and population genetics
10. Evaluate pharmacogenomic implications if applicable
11. Address variants of uncertain significance with appropriate uncertainty
12. Recommend additional genetic testing if needed for clarification
13. Provide genetic counseling guidance including psychosocial considerations
14. Identify need for specialist referrals based on genetic findings

Use current ACMG/AMP variant classification guidelines. Distinguish between diagnostic testing and predictive/susceptibility testing. Acknowledge limitations of genetic testing including incomplete penetrance and phenotypic variability. Consider both medical and psychosocial aspects.

Structure your interpretation with: Genetic Test Summary, Variant Classification and Interpretation, Disease Risk Assessment, Clinical Phenotype-Genotype Correlation, Medical Management Recommendations, Surveillance and Prevention Strategies, Inheritance Pattern and Family Implications, Cascade Testing Recommendations, Genetic Counseling Considerations, Limitations and Uncertainties, and Recommended Follow-up.

Genetic Testing Information: [USER INPUT: Provide type of genetic test performed, specific genes analyzed, variants identified with nomenclature (HGVS format if available), patient phenotype and clinical presentation, family history including pedigree information if available, ethnic background and ancestry, indication for genetic testing, patient age and reproductive planning considerations, prior genetic testing results if any, and specific questions or concerns regarding genetic findings]

Expected Outcome: A comprehensive genetic interpretation including classification of all identified variants using ACMG criteria, detailed explanation of clinical significance for pathogenic findings, quantitative disease risk assessment when applicable, correlation between genetic findings and patient phenotype, evidence-based medical management recommendations including surveillance protocols and preventive interventions, explanation of inheritance patterns with implications for family members, specific cascade testing recommendations with identification of at-risk relatives, reproductive counseling considerations, psychosocial impact assessment, limitations of current genetic knowledge, and clear guidance for follow-up including specialist referrals and future testing considerations.

User Input Examples:

Example 1: “Genetic test: Hereditary cancer panel, 84 genes analyzed. Patient: 42-year-old female with newly diagnosed breast cancer. Variant identified: BRCA1 c.5266dupC (p.Gln1756Profs*74), heterozygous, classified as pathogenic. Clinical presentation: invasive ductal carcinoma, triple negative, diagnosed at age 42, no prior cancers. Family history: mother diagnosed with ovarian cancer at age 55, deceased at 58; maternal aunt had breast cancer at age 48; maternal grandmother had breast cancer at age 62. No male breast cancers in family. Patient has two daughters ages 18 and 15, one son age 12. Ethnicity: Ashkenazi Jewish descent. Patient underwent lumpectomy, considering treatment options. Concerned about daughters’ risk and whether sons are affected. Wants to know cancer risks and prevention options.”

Example 2: “Genetic test: Whole exome sequencing performed for diagnostic evaluation. Patient: 5-year-old male child. Variants identified: Two variants in CFTR gene – c.1521_1523delCTT (p.Phe508del) and c.1652G>A (p.Gly551Asp), compound heterozygous, both classified as pathogenic. Clinical presentation: recurrent respiratory infections since infancy, failure to thrive, chronic sinusitis, pancreatic insufficiency, elevated sweat chloride test 68 mmol/L (normal <40). Parents report child has very salty-tasting skin. Family history: parents are healthy and non-consanguineous, one older sister age 8 is healthy, patient is youngest child. Ethnicity: Northern European (Irish and German ancestry). Parents are planning to have more children and want to understand risks. Diagnosed with cystic fibrosis clinically, genetic testing done for confirmation and to guide treatment with CFTR modulators.”

Example 3: “Genetic test: Pharmacogenomic testing panel. Patient: 55-year-old male with depression, not responding to multiple antidepressant trials. Results: CYP2D6 genotype shows 4/4 alleles (poor metabolizer phenotype), CYP2C19 genotype shows 2/17 alleles (intermediate metabolizer for some substrates, rapid for others), SLCO1B1 shows 5/5 genotype (reduced statin transporter function). Clinical presentation: major depressive disorder, has tried sertraline, paroxetine, and fluoxetine without adequate response or with side effects. Also has hyperlipidemia on atorvastatin 40 mg, reports muscle aches. Family history: mother had depression, responded well to nortriptyline; brother has depression on venlafaxine. Ethnicity: Caucasian. Patient frustrated with medication trials, wants to understand why medications don’t work as expected and what alternatives might be better suited. Also concerned about statin side effects. Currently taking atorvastatin, metoprolol for hypertension, and escitalopram 20 mg (current antidepressant, minimal benefit).”

Conclusion: Enhancing Clinical Decision-Making with AI

These nine comprehensive AI prompts represent powerful tools for augmenting clinical decision support across multiple diagnostic and analytical domains. From differential diagnosis generation to genetic risk interpretation, each prompt is carefully structured to provide systematic, evidence-based guidance that complements and enhances clinical expertise.

Key Takeaways for Healthcare Professionals

Integration into Clinical Workflow: These prompts are designed to seamlessly integrate into existing clinical workflows, providing decision support at critical junctures without disrupting efficient patient care delivery.

Complementary Tool, Not Replacement: AI-generated outputs serve as valuable second opinions and systematic checklists, but they never replace the nuanced clinical judgment, patient relationships, and ethical decision-making that define excellent medical practice.

Continuous Learning: As AI technology and medical knowledge evolve, these prompts should be regularly reviewed and updated to reflect current best practices, emerging evidence, and refined diagnostic criteria.

Quality Assurance: Always validate AI-generated recommendations against current clinical guidelines, peer-reviewed literature, and your own clinical expertise before applying them to patient care decisions.

Moving Forward with AI-Enhanced Clinical Decision Support

The integration of AI into clinical decision support represents a significant advancement in our ability to process complex medical information, recognize patterns, and deliver high-quality patient care. By using these structured prompts thoughtfully and critically, healthcare professionals can enhance diagnostic accuracy, reduce cognitive burden, and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

We encourage you to explore these prompts, adapt them to your specific clinical context, and share your experiences with colleagues. The future of medicine lies in the thoughtful integration of artificial intelligence with human clinical expertise, creating a synergistic approach that elevates the standard of care for all patients.

Share Your Experience

As you implement these clinical decision support prompts in your practice, consider documenting cases where AI assistance provided valuable insights, identified potential oversights, or enhanced your diagnostic reasoning. Your experiences contribute to the broader healthcare community’s understanding of how to optimally integrate AI tools into clinical medicine.

Remember: The best clinical decisions emerge from the combination of advanced technology, comprehensive medical knowledge, and the irreplaceable human elements of empathy, ethical reasoning, and patient-centered care.

Disclaimer: These AI prompts are intended for use by licensed healthcare professionals as decision support tools only. They do not constitute medical advice and should not replace clinical judgment, direct patient evaluation, or consultation with specialists when indicated. Always verify AI-generated outputs against current clinical guidelines and evidence-based medicine before applying to patient care.