The process of obtaining all of the necessary data for diagnosing and treating a patient. It should be done in an orderly manner so that essential elements will not be overlooked. Included are retrieval of all previous medical and dental records, the patient’s family and personal medical history, social and occupational history, physical examination, laboratory studies, x-ray examinations, and indicated diagnostic surgical procedures. The patient’s workup is an ongoing process wherein all hospital personnel involved cooperate in attempting to determine the correct diagnosis and effective therapy.