CGC Genetic Counseling Communication & Education 2

Question 1

Which of the following BEST describes the purpose of a pedigree in a genetic counseling session?

Accepted Answer

To visually map family medical history and identify inheritance patterns

Answer

To satisfy documentation requirements only

Answer

To provide patients with a record of their relatives

Answer

To replace the need for genetic testing

Question 2

During a session, a patient becomes visibly distressed upon learning about a hereditary cancer risk. The counselor's immediate priority should be:

Accepted Answer

Acknowledge the patient's emotional response and provide space to process

Answer

Continue reviewing test options to stay on schedule

Answer

Refer the patient immediately to a mental health professional

Answer

Remind the patient that early detection improves outcomes

Question 3

Which informed consent element is MOST critical when discussing predictive genetic testing for a late-onset condition?

Accepted Answer

The potential psychological impact of knowing one's genetic status

Answer

The cost of the genetic test

Answer

The time required to complete the test

Answer

The number of labs that offer the test

Question 4

A genetic counselor suspects a patient has not truly understood the recurrence risk discussed. The BEST next step is to:

Accepted Answer

Use teach-back to reassess and re-explain with different framing

Answer

Document that information was provided

Answer

Provide a pamphlet and schedule a follow-up

Answer

Ask the referring physician to reinforce the information

Question 5

In pediatric genetic counseling, assent from a minor patient is BEST described as:

Accepted Answer

The child's affirmative agreement to participate in testing, considered alongside parental consent

Answer

Legally binding consent that replaces parental consent

Answer

Permission obtained only from teenagers aged 16 and older

Answer

Not necessary if parents have consented

Question 6

A genetic counselor is helping a patient communicate a hereditary risk to family members. The MOST appropriate counselor role is to:

Accepted Answer

Provide the patient with tools and guidance to share the information themselves

Answer

Contact family members directly on the patient's behalf

Answer

Advise the patient not to disclose to avoid family anxiety

Answer

Require family members to attend the next counseling session