Patient Communication Skills Flashcards
7 cards from real FACEM practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Patient Communication Skills flashcards as text
Which of the following best describes a patient-centred approach to communication in the emergency department?
Answer: Eliciting the patient's concerns, values, and preferences and incorporating them into management
Patient-centred care integrates the patient's perspective, values, and goals alongside clinical information to inform decision-making.
A patient who is deaf attends the ED and requests an Auslan interpreter. The hospital does not have one immediately available. What is the best approach?
Answer: Access a remote Auslan interpreter service via video link
Remote video interpreter services provide immediate access to Auslan interpreters and satisfy the patient's right to accessible communication.
After a patient death, which communication approach is most appropriate when speaking with the bereaved family?
Answer: Sit with the family, use plain language, allow silence, and express condolences sincerely
Sitting with the family, allowing silence, and using plain language are evidence-based practices for compassionate death notification.
A patient insists on a CT scan that the physician believes is clinically unnecessary. What communication strategy should be used?
Answer: Acknowledge the patient's concern, explain the clinical reasoning, discuss risks of radiation, and offer alternatives
Explaining clinical reasoning and risks while acknowledging patient concerns balances autonomy with evidence-based practice.
When communicating a medication error to a patient, the open disclosure process requires which of the following?
Answer: A sincere apology, clear factual explanation of what happened, and an outline of corrective steps
Open disclosure requires honest communication, a genuine apology, explanation of the event, and description of steps to prevent recurrence.
A patient states they are considering leaving before assessment is complete (self-discharge). What should the physician do first?
Answer: Explore the patient's reasons for wanting to leave and address any underlying concerns
Understanding and addressing the reasons behind a patient's desire to leave may resolve the issue and prevent an unsafe discharge.
Which approach is most appropriate when communicating with a patient who is acutely intoxicated and aggressive?
Answer: Use a calm, low tone, maintain safe distance, limit stimulation, and avoid confrontational language
De-escalation of intoxicated agitated patients requires calm verbal and non-verbal communication while maintaining physical safety.