Which is correct regarding physicians' telling patients about their terminal condition?
A)In the early 1960s the majority of physicians told the patient the prognosis.
B)Physicians have historically been well prepared in medical school to tell the patient about his or her terminal condition.
C)The majority of physicians today tell the terminally ill patient the prognosis.
D)Both b and c are correct.
E)None of the above.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Studies have shown that the majority of physicians today do tell the terminally ill patient the prognosis. However, historically physicians were often reluctant to discuss terminal conditions with patients and in the early 1960s, only a minority of physicians disclosed the prognosis to their patients. While physicians receive extensive training in medical school, they may not receive specific training in how to communicate bad news to patients which can lead to their apprehension in discussing terminal diagnoses. Therefore, choices A and B are incorrect.

Which Is Correct Regarding Physicians' Telling Patients About Their Terminal