PREview Communication Skills 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which of the following BEST describes the teach-back method?
- The provider explains a concept and moves on
- The provider asks the patient to explain the information in their own words to verify understanding (Correct answer)
- The patient teaches other patients about their condition
- The provider repeats instructions multiple times for emphasis
Correct answer: The provider asks the patient to explain the information in their own words to verify understanding
The teach-back method verifies patient understanding by having them repeat information in their own words, reducing miscommunication.
Question 2: In written professional communication, which element is MOST important?
- Using sophisticated vocabulary to demonstrate expertise
- Clarity, accuracy, and appropriate tone for the intended audience (Correct answer)
- Length and comprehensiveness
- Formal structure regardless of context
Correct answer: Clarity, accuracy, and appropriate tone for the intended audience
Effective professional writing prioritizes clear, accurate information delivered in a tone appropriate to the audience and context.
Question 3: A patient tells you they have been taking a medication differently than prescribed because of side effects. What is the MOST appropriate initial response?
- Correct them immediately and reinforce the prescribed regimen
- Thank them for sharing, ask about the side effects they experienced, and explore solutions together (Correct answer)
- Document the non-adherence without further discussion
- Refer them to pharmacy for counseling
Correct answer: Thank them for sharing, ask about the side effects they experienced, and explore solutions together
Acknowledging the patient's disclosure nonjudgmentally and exploring the root cause promotes open dialogue and supports adherence problem-solving.
Question 4: Which nonverbal behavior MOST supports therapeutic communication?
- Crossing your arms while listening to appear attentive
- Maintaining appropriate eye contact and open body posture (Correct answer)
- Taking extensive notes without looking up
- Standing while the patient is seated to maintain authority
Correct answer: Maintaining appropriate eye contact and open body posture
Appropriate eye contact and open body posture signal engagement and respect, which are foundational to therapeutic communication.
Question 5: When delivering bad news to a patient, which communication approach is MOST appropriate?
- Deliver information quickly to minimize emotional distress
- Use a structured framework such as SPIKES to deliver information empathetically in stages (Correct answer)
- Have a nurse present the diagnosis to reduce the physician's emotional burden
- Provide written information only to allow the patient to process privately
Correct answer: Use a structured framework such as SPIKES to deliver information empathetically in stages
Structured approaches like SPIKES ensure bad news is delivered sensitively, with room for the patient to respond and receive support.
Question 6: A patient from a different cultural background declines a recommended treatment. What is the most appropriate communication approach?
- Insist on the treatment since it is medically indicated
- Explore their cultural beliefs and concerns and incorporate them into shared decision-making (Correct answer)
- Document non-compliance and proceed with other treatments
- Refer them to a culturally specific provider immediately
Correct answer: Explore their cultural beliefs and concerns and incorporate them into shared decision-making
Exploring cultural perspectives and integrating them into shared decision-making respects patient autonomy and promotes culturally competent care.
PREview Communication Skills 2
Which of the following BEST describes the teach-back method?