PEBC Patient Communication 3

Question 1

A patient discloses recreational cannabis use when asked about current medications. The pharmacist should:

Accepted Answer

Acknowledge the disclosure non-judgementally and assess for potential drug interactions

Answer

Non-judgemental assessment allows the pharmacist to identify cannabis-drug interactions and provide harm reduction counselling.

Question 2

Which communication technique is MOST effective for confirming a patient's understanding of a complex dosing schedule?

Accepted Answer

Using the teach-back method by asking the patient to repeat the schedule in their own words

Answer

Teach-back requires active patient demonstration of understanding rather than passive agreement.

Question 3

A patient asks the pharmacist to keep their HIV medication out of the dispensing bag label visible to others. The pharmacist should:

Accepted Answer

Explore discreet packaging or blister pack options while meeting all regulatory labelling requirements

Answer

Pharmacists should explore options that balance privacy concerns with regulatory labelling obligations.

Question 4

When explaining a new antibiotic prescription, the pharmacist should emphasize WHICH of the following FIRST?

Accepted Answer

The importance of completing the full course even if symptoms improve early

Answer

Completing the full antibiotic course prevents treatment failure and reduces antibiotic resistance.

Question 5

A patient with schizophrenia declines to take their antipsychotic medication and says 'I don't need it.' The pharmacist's BEST approach is:

Accepted Answer

Explore the patient's concerns, provide information, and support shared decision-making

Answer

Exploring concerns and engaging in shared decision-making respects patient autonomy and may identify modifiable barriers.

PEBC - Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada Practice Test