CGC Genetic Counseling Communication & Education

Question 1

Which communication technique is most effective when disclosing a pathogenic variant result to a patient?

Accepted Answer

Deliver information in small chunks with pauses to check understanding

Answer

Use technical jargon to demonstrate expertise

Answer

Provide all information at once to be efficient

Answer

Avoid emotional language entirely

Question 2

In the context of genetic counseling, 'nondirectiveness' primarily means the counselor should:

Accepted Answer

Support client autonomy without imposing the counselor's values

Answer

Refuse to give any recommendations

Answer

Always present options neutrally without any guidance

Answer

Avoid discussing the emotional aspects of a diagnosis

Question 3

A patient with limited health literacy is seen for BRCA testing counseling. The BEST approach is to:

Accepted Answer

Simplify explanations and use visual aids to confirm understanding

Answer

Use the same materials as with all patients

Answer

Refer the patient to a specialist in health literacy

Answer

Postpone counseling until literacy improves

Question 4

The 'teach-back' method is used in genetic counseling to:

Accepted Answer

Verify that the patient has understood the information provided

Answer

Train the counselor on new techniques

Answer

Teach patients how to counsel family members

Answer

Review previously covered session material

Question 5

When counseling a patient from a different cultural background regarding a hereditary condition, the genetic counselor should FIRST:

Accepted Answer

Ask the patient about their cultural values and beliefs related to genetics

Answer

Assume cultural beliefs will not affect decision-making

Answer

Proceed with standard counseling and adjust only if resistance is encountered

Answer

Request a formal cultural competency consult

Question 6

A genetic counselor is writing a patient letter after a variant of uncertain significance (VUS) result. The letter should primarily:

Accepted Answer

Explain what a VUS means and emphasize the need for reclassification follow-up

Answer

State that the result is likely pathogenic for future planning

Answer

Reassure the patient the result is normal

Answer

Recommend immediate prophylactic surgery