Question 1

Without proper terminology and verbal communications skills, the receiver will be unable to ________ the message.

Accepted Answer

Decoding refers to the process of interpreting and understanding the message that has been received. Without proper terminology and verbal communication skills, the receiver might not be able to decode the message accurately, leading to miscommunication and misunderstandings. Resending, encoding, and receiving the message are not relevant in this context.

Question 2

When you detect an inconsistency in a patient's story, which of the following techniques should you use?

Accepted Answer

When there is an inconsistency in a patient's story, the best technique to use is confrontation. This involves respectfully pointing out the discrepancy or contradiction and seeking clarification from the patient. This can help to build trust and promote honesty in the patient-provider relationship.

Question 3

Which of the following actions can you take to establish rapport with a patient early in the interview?

Accepted Answer

Responding to a patient's condition with empathy is a crucial way to establish rapport with a patient early in the interview. It shows that you are listening and understand their concerns, which can help build trust and a positive relationship. Asking too many questions or maintaining control of the interview at all times can come across as impersonal or aggressive, while not showing emotion can make you seem cold or disinterested.

Question 4

Which of the following statements regarding effective history taking is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

Using a combination of open- and closed-ended questions is the most effective approach to history taking. Open-ended questions allow for more detailed and personal responses, while closed-ended questions can help clarify specific details or confirm information. Avoiding potentially embarrassing questions may prevent important information from being disclosed, and exclusively using open or closed questions may limit the patient's ability to fully express themselves.

Question 5

Which of the following qualities should characterize your verbal interaction with a patient when obtaining the history?

Accepted Answer

Using a calm, reassuring voice is important in helping the patient feel comfortable and building trust. Speaking softly is also beneficial, as it can create a more intimate and safe environment for the patient to share their information. Speaking loudly or demanding the patient's attention can be intimidating or off-putting for the patient.

Question 6

When you ask your patient questions to eliminated confusion, you are using the technique called:

Accepted Answer

Clarification involves asking questions to make sure you understand what the patient is saying and to eliminate confusion or misunderstandings. Reflection involves restating what the patient said to show understanding, interpretation involves offering an explanation or meaning for the patient's words, and facilitation involves encouraging the patient to continue speaking.

Question 7

Which of the following establishes the foundation for gathering good information?

Accepted Answer

Active listening is crucial for gathering good information as it involves fully concentrating, understanding, and responding to the speaker, ensuring accurate and comprehensive information collection.

Question 8

The history begins with an open-ended question about your patient's:

Accepted Answer

The chief complaint is often the reason the patient is seeking medical attention and should be addressed first to determine the main issue that needs to be addressed during the medical visit. General health and past medical history can also be important, but they may not directly relate to the reason for the current visit. Severity of symptoms can be discussed after determining the chief complaint.

Question 9

Part of active listening includes maintaining eye contact and using appropriate gestures in a process known as:

Accepted Answer

Facilitation involves using appropriate facial expressions, gestures, and body language to show interest and engagement in the conversation. Eye contact is also an important aspect of facilitation as it indicates that the listener is present and focused on the speaker. Articulation refers to the clarity and pronunciation of words, whereas formulation involves putting thoughts into words. Reflection is the process of summarizing and repeating back what the speaker has said to confirm understanding.

Question 10

The active listening technique of reflection involves:

Accepted Answer

The active listening technique of reflection involves repeating the patient's words back to them to show that you are listening and to check for understanding. This allows the patient to feel heard and understood, and can help clarify any misunderstandings or miscommunications. Confronting the patient or asking closed-ended questions can be counterproductive and may lead to the patient feeling defensive or shutting down. Similarly, not allowing the patient to explore different aspects of their problem can prevent them from finding solutions or gaining insight into their situation.

Question 11

Which of the following statements can show your empathy toward the patient?

Accepted Answer

Option D acknowledges the patient's experience and expresses empathy.

Question 12

All of the following encourage patient communication EXCEPT:

Accepted Answer

Using medical jargon can be confusing and intimidating for patients, and can discourage communication. Encouraging patient communication involves using clear and understandable language, asking for clarification when needed, maintaining eye contact, and listening closely to the patient's concerns.

Question 13

Which of the following statements regarding patient communication is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

Using language appropriate to the patient's level of understanding is important to ensure effective communication and comprehension. Avoiding the use of medical jargon and providing clear explanations can help to build trust and rapport with the patient. Additionally, utilizing interpreters when necessary can aid in communication between patients and providers who do not speak the same language fluently. Cultural differences may also play a role in communication styles, so being aware of and respectful of cultural norms and values can help to facilitate effective communication.

Question 14

Which of the following actions would you take if confronted with a patient who is silent?

Accepted Answer

Encouraging the patient to speak can help uncover any concerns or information that may be important for their care. It also shows that you are willing to listen and value their input. Assuming the reason for their silence or staying silent yourself may not be effective in addressing their needs.

Question 15

When asking about a patient's health status, you should ask about all of the following EXCEPT:

Accepted Answer

While knowing a patient's religious beliefs may be important for their overall care, it is not directly relevant to their current health status. The other options (use of tobacco, immunizations, surgeries or hospitalizations) can all provide important information about a patient's health status and history.

Question 16

Which of the following is an example of a closed question?

Accepted Answer

A closed question is one that can be answered with a simple yes or no response. Option B is a closed question as it can be answered with a simple yes or no. The other options are open-ended questions that require a more detailed response.

Question 17

Which of the following questions gathers information about a patient's current health status?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Which of the following questions gathers information...

Question 18

Encouraging your patient with your body language to provide more information is called:

Accepted Answer

Facilitation is the act of using non-verbal cues, such as body language or verbal prompts, to encourage a patient to share more information about their thoughts and feelings. This can lead to a more productive therapeutic relationship and a better understanding of the patient's needs. Interpretation involves analyzing the patient's behavior or communication to gain insight into their underlying feelings or motivations. Clarification involves asking the patient to explain or expand upon what they have said to ensure understanding. Reflection involves repeating or summarizing what the patient has said to show that you have been actively listening.

Question 19

Which of the following is a challenge to your ability to solicit patient information?

Accepted Answer

All of the options listed are challenges to obtaining patient information. Patients with multiple symptoms may have a hard time articulating which symptoms are most severe or may not be able to remember all of their symptoms. Patients with cognitive impairments may have difficulty understanding or answering questions. Intoxicated patients may not be able to provide coherent or accurate information.

Question 20

Which of the following nonverbal cues demonstrates your sincerity to the patient?

Accepted Answer

Offering a comforting touch or shaking the patient's hand can demonstrate sincerity and reassurance to the patient. This physical connection can help establish trust between the patient and healthcare provider. Averting your gaze or maintaining a distance can make the patient feel uncomfortable or that you are not fully engaged in the interaction. Touching a patient who appears uncomfortable with it can be seen as invasive and disrespectful to their boundaries.

Quiz 3: Therapeutic Communications