A Previously Healthy 66-Year-Old Woman Is Taken to the Hospital

A previously healthy 66-year-old woman is taken to the hospital with recurring hemoptysis. A 10-cm perihilar lump in the right lung is seen by a chest x-ray performed at the emergency room. A bronchoscopic biopsy is performed on the patient, which reveals non-small cell lung cancer. When the doctor enters her room to reveal the biopsy findings, he sees the patient enjoying lunch with relatives and friends who have been at her bedside since her admittance. They all seem nervous, and the patient sobs as she tells the doctor, "This is the moment I've been dreading. I believe I already know what my test findings will be." Which of the following physician replies is most appropriate?

A) "I don't want to disturb your lunch now, let me arrange a family meeting later to share your results."
B) "Is there anyone you would like to remain in the room while we talk about your results?"
C) "It can be easier to hear your results from a family member.  Is there someone I can talk to first?"
D) "It's good that your family is here to support you now, because I have difficult news to share with you."
E) "Tell me, what do you and your family members know and believe about your condition?"