Dr. Robert J. Cooper, a family practitioner in Pictou, Nova Scotia, has consented to a reprimand issued by Investigation Committee "A" of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia with respect to a complaint from a patient.

The Committee was concerned that during an emergency room visit by the patient, Dr. Cooper failed to conduct an adequate history of the patient's complaint; failed to conduct an adequate physical examination; and failed to arrange an emergency neurosurgical consultation. The Committee also expressed concerns about the content, completeness, and legibility of the portion of the medical record for which Dr. Cooper was responsible.

The Committee has acknowledged the work Dr. Cooper has undertaken to improve his practice in the area of history-taking, decision-making, and documentation and has counseled him to continue these improvements.

The Committee's decision constitutes a finding of professional misconduct/ professional incompetence that will be entered on Dr. Cooper's formal discipline record. Dr. Cooper has been informed that the public will be notified of this decision.