Patients often expect ‘pain-free’ results after orthopedic surgery. How would you set realistic expectations for pain and function before a procedure like a total knee replacement, especially for patients eager to resume high-impact activities?
Specialty-Specific
Purpose
This question checks how well you can communicate with patients and manage their expectations about surgery outcomes. Interviewers want to see if you can balance what patients hope for with the reality of recovery.
Tips
- Start by listening to the patient's goals and emotions to show empathy.
- Use simple, clear language to explain what they can realistically expect after surgery.
- Discuss the importance of rehabilitation and how it plays a big role in recovery.
Common mistakes
- Don't dismiss the patient's hopes or make them feel like their concerns don't matter.
- Avoid using medical jargon that might confuse them instead of helping.
- Don't make unrealistic promises about being pain-free or returning to high-impact activities right away.