Some patients are worried about cumulative radiation from multiple nuclear medicine procedures. How would you address these concerns and justify repeat studies when needed?
Specialty-Specific
Purpose
This question checks how well you can communicate with patients about their fears regarding radiation. Interviewers want to see if you can explain complex ideas simply and reassure patients while justifying the need for repeat studies.
Tips
- Start by acknowledging the patient's concerns and showing empathy.
- Use simple language to explain what radiation is and why it's used in nuclear medicine.
- Clearly justify why the repeat study is necessary for that specific patient, focusing on their health outcomes.
Common mistakes
- Don't dismiss their worries or say 'don't worry about it'—that can come off as uncaring.
- Avoid using too much medical jargon; keep it simple and relatable.
- Don't forget to mention safety principles like ALARA or how you minimize radiation exposure.