How would you handle a situation where a pregnant patient refuses a recommended medical intervention, such as a cesarean section or blood transfusion, due to personal or religious beliefs?
Specialty-Specific
Purpose
This question digs into how you balance a patient's rights with medical recommendations. Interviewers want to see if you can navigate tough ethical situations while respecting personal beliefs.
Tips
- Acknowledge the ethical dilemma right away; it's a tricky balance between patient autonomy and fetal health.
- Show empathy by actively listening to the patient's reasons for refusal and validating her feelings.
- Communicate clearly about the risks and benefits of the intervention, using simple language and checking for understanding.
Common mistakes
- Don't come off as dismissive of the patient's beliefs; that can really hurt the doctor-patient relationship.
- Avoid using coercive language or threats, like mentioning legal action too soon; it can escalate the situation.
- Don't forget to explore alternatives or involve a multidisciplinary team; showing creativity and support is key.