Patient Communication Skills Flashcards

A patient with limited English proficiency is scheduled for an emergency cesarean section. Which communication approach is most appropriate for the anesthesiologist?

Answer: Use a qualified medical interpreter, in-person or via video

Qualified medical interpreters (in-person or via video) must be used for informed consent to ensure accuracy and legal compliance.

During a pre-anesthesia assessment, a patient becomes visibly anxious when discussing the risks of general anesthesia. What is the most effective therapeutic communication technique?

Answer: Acknowledge the patient's feelings and invite them to share their concerns

Acknowledging emotions and inviting open dialogue builds trust and allows the anesthesiologist to address specific fears effectively.

An anesthesiologist is explaining epidural placement to a laboring patient between contractions. Which strategy best ensures effective communication?

Answer: Use simple language and pause frequently to check understanding during calm intervals

Timing communication during pain-free intervals and checking understanding with simple language maximizes retention under stress.

A patient refuses regional anesthesia and insists on general anesthesia despite having a documented difficult airway. How should the anesthesiologist respond?

Answer: Explore the reasons for refusal, provide additional education, and document the informed decision

Exploring reasons and providing targeted education respects autonomy while fulfilling the duty to ensure truly informed refusal.

Which teach-back method application is most appropriate for verifying a patient's understanding of NPO instructions before elective surgery?

Answer: Ask 'Can you tell me in your own words what you should avoid eating and drinking and until when?'

Teach-back asks the patient to restate instructions in their own words, confirming true comprehension rather than simple acknowledgment.

A patient discloses a history of sexual trauma and expresses discomfort with the planned regional block position. What is the most patient-centered response?

Answer: Acknowledge the concern, explore alternative techniques, and involve the patient in the decision

Trauma-informed care requires acknowledging disclosures, exploring alternatives, and collaborating with the patient on the plan.

During handoff from the OR to the PACU, which communication framework is recommended by the ABA and patient safety organizations to minimize information loss?

Answer: SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation)

SBAR is the standardized handoff framework endorsed by patient safety organizations to ensure structured, complete information transfer.