PREview Communication Skills

Question 1

Which of the following BEST describes effective patient-centered communication?

Accepted Answer

Adapting your communication style to the patient's health literacy level and responding to their needs

Answer

Patient-centered communication tailors language and approach to the individual patient's understanding and needs.

Question 2

During a patient interview, a patient begins to cry. What is the MOST appropriate immediate response?

Accepted Answer

Pause, acknowledge the emotion, and provide brief support before continuing

Answer

Pausing to acknowledge the patient's emotions before continuing demonstrates empathy and builds therapeutic rapport.

Question 3

What is the PRIMARY purpose of active listening in a clinical setting?

Accepted Answer

To ensure accurate understanding of the patient's concerns and build a trusting relationship

Answer

Active listening ensures the clinician accurately understands the patient's perspective, which is essential for both diagnosis and rapport.

Question 4

Which of the following is an example of a barrier to effective communication in healthcare?

Accepted Answer

Using jargon-filled language without checking comprehension

Answer

Using medical jargon without verifying understanding creates a barrier that may cause patients to leave encounters confused or misinformed.

Question 5

You notice a colleague consistently interrupting patients before they finish speaking. Which communication principle does this violate?

Accepted Answer

Active listening

Answer

Interrupting patients violates active listening by preventing full expression of the patient's concerns.

PREview - AAMC PREview Professional Readiness Exam Practice Test