GAMSAT Patient Communication Skills 3

Question 1

A 70-year-old patient with mild cognitive impairment is accompanied by an adult child who repeatedly answers questions directed at the patient. The best approach is to:

Accepted Answer

Politely redirect questions to the patient while including the family member appropriately

Answer

Patients with mild cognitive impairment retain decision-making capacity in many situations and should be the primary communication partner.

Question 2

The 'teach-back' method is used in patient communication primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Verify patient comprehension by asking them to repeat information in their own words

Answer

Teach-back confirms understanding rather than merely confirming that information was delivered.

Question 3

A patient with chronic pain reports that the medication is 'not working at all.' Before adjusting treatment, the most important communication step is to:

Accepted Answer

Explore what 'not working' means to the patient and assess their pain expectations

Answer

Clarifying the patient's perspective reveals whether the issue is efficacy, side effects, unrealistic expectations, or adherence.

Question 4

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is BEST suited for which clinical scenario?

Accepted Answer

Helping a patient ambivalent about quitting smoking to explore their own reasons for change

Answer

MI leverages the patient's own intrinsic motivation and is most effective when ambivalence about behavior change exists.

Question 5

During a telehealth consultation, a patient seems distracted and gives short answers. The physician should:

Accepted Answer

Acknowledge the format and ask if this is a good time or if there are distractions

Answer

Checking in about the environment and timing shows awareness of telehealth's unique challenges and demonstrates patient-centered care.

(GAMSAT) Graduate Medical School Admissions Test Practice Test

(GAMSAT) Graduate Medical School Admissions Test Practice Test

GAMSAT Patient Communication Skills 3