Patient Communication Skills Flashcards

When obtaining informed consent for aromatherapy treatment, which element is essential?

Answer: Disclosure of benefits, risks, alternatives, and the patient's right to refuse or withdraw at any time

Valid informed consent requires disclosure of benefits, risks, alternatives, and patient autonomy to refuse or withdraw.

A patient asks a question the practitioner does not know the answer to. The most professional response is to:

Answer: Acknowledge not knowing, offer to research the topic, and follow up with verified information

Admitting knowledge limits and following up with accurate information maintains trust and models professional integrity.

Which behavior most directly demonstrates therapeutic presence during an aromatherapy session?

Answer: Minimizing distractions, being fully attentive, and matching the pace and tone of the patient

Therapeutic presence involves focused attention and attuning to the patient's cues without introducing unnecessary stimulation.

A patient declines a recommended essential oil blend citing personal preference. The practitioner should:

Answer: Respect the decision and collaboratively explore alternatives that align with patient preference

Patient autonomy must be respected; collaborative exploration of alternatives maintains the therapeutic alliance.

What does 'reflective listening' specifically involve in a clinical aromatherapy session?

Answer: Repeating or paraphrasing the patient's words to confirm understanding and show empathy

Reflective listening involves restating or paraphrasing the patient's words to demonstrate understanding and validate their experience.

When creating a home care protocol for a patient with low health literacy, which strategy is most appropriate?

Answer: Use simple language, numbered steps, pictures where possible, and confirm comprehension with teach-back

Simple language, visual aids, and teach-back are evidence-based strategies for effective health education with low-literacy patients.

A practitioner observes that a returning patient appears more withdrawn than usual. The appropriate action is to:

Answer: Gently observe aloud what they notice and create space for the patient to share if they choose

Noticing and gently naming observed changes without pressure invites the patient to share while preserving their autonomy.