A cardiologist needs to inform a patient with newly diagnosed advanced heart failure that their prognosis is poor. Which communication approach is most appropriate when delivering this serious news?
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A
Deliver all prognostic information at once to be transparent and save time
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B
Use the SPIKES protocol — assess knowledge, give warning, provide information in stages, and respond to emotions
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C
Defer the conversation to the patient's primary care physician to maintain the therapeutic relationship
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D
Provide only general information and allow the patient to ask specific questions if interested