Patient Communication Flashcards
7 cards from real PEBC 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 flashcards as text
A patient with limited English proficiency needs counselling on insulin injection technique. What is the BEST approach?
Answer: Use a professional interpreter or language line service
Professional interpreters or language line services ensure accurate medical communication and protect patient confidentiality.
When using the 'teach-back' method, a patient incorrectly explains how to take their medication. What should the pharmacist do?
Answer: Correct the patient gently and re-explain, then ask them to teach back again
Teach-back is a cycle — if understanding is incomplete, the pharmacist re-explains and repeats the verification step.
A patient asks about a competitor pharmacy's lower drug price. What is the MOST professional response?
Answer: Acknowledge the concern, explain your pharmacy's value, and offer to check available options
Acknowledging the patient's concern and explaining value demonstrates professionalism and respects patient autonomy.
During a prescription pickup, a patient reveals they have been skipping doses because they cannot afford the medication. The pharmacist's FIRST action should be:
Answer: Explore drug coverage options, generic alternatives, or patient assistance programs
Identifying affordability barriers and offering solutions is a key pharmacist role in supporting adherence.
A patient becomes angry and raises their voice after waiting 45 minutes for a prescription. The BEST de-escalation strategy is:
Answer: Apologize for the wait, acknowledge frustration, and explain the current status calmly
Empathetic acknowledgement and transparent communication are evidence-based de-escalation strategies.
When counselling an elderly patient on a new medication, the pharmacist notices the patient keeps nodding but gives vague answers. This MOST likely indicates:
Answer: The patient may be experiencing hearing difficulty or not understanding
Nodding with vague responses is a common sign that a patient may be masking confusion or hearing impairment.
A parent asks a pharmacist to recommend an OTC cough syrup for their 18-month-old child. The pharmacist's BEST response is:
Answer: Explain that OTC cough and cold products are not recommended for children under 6 and suggest non-pharmacological alternatives
Health Canada advises against OTC cough and cold products in children under 6 due to safety concerns.