CPE Communication and Interpersonal Skills 2

Question 1

A physician executive is delivering difficult performance feedback to a senior physician who becomes defensive. Which de-escalation technique is most effective?

Accepted Answer

Use 'I' statements and acknowledge the physician's perspective before restating concerns

Answer

Using 'I' statements and validating the other person's perspective reduces defensiveness and keeps the conversation productive.

Question 2

During a board presentation, a physician executive notices several board members checking their phones. What is the best immediate response?

Accepted Answer

Pause, ask a direct question to re-engage the audience, and adjust pace

Answer

Asking a question re-engages disengaged listeners and signals awareness of audience needs.

Question 3

Which communication model best describes the process in which a sender encodes a message, transmits it through a channel, and a receiver decodes it with potential noise interference?

Accepted Answer

Shannon-Weaver model

Answer

The Shannon-Weaver model specifically describes encoding, transmission, noise, and decoding as core components.

Question 4

A physician executive needs to communicate a major workflow change to clinical staff. Which approach best ensures message retention?

Accepted Answer

Use multiple channels — email, team huddles, and posters — reinforcing the same message

Answer

Redundant communication across multiple channels significantly improves message retention and comprehension.

Question 5

When negotiating resource allocation with a reluctant department chief, a physician executive should primarily use which strategy?

Accepted Answer

Interest-based negotiation that identifies shared goals

Answer

Interest-based negotiation uncovers mutual concerns and leads to durable agreements rather than win-lose outcomes.

(CPE) Certified Physician Executive Practice Test

(CPE) Certified Physician Executive Practice Test

CPE Communication and Interpersonal Skills 2