Suppose a pregnant patient needs an urgent nuclear medicine scan, for example for life-threatening pulmonary embolism. How would you approach the decision-making and risk discussion?
Specialty-Specific
Purpose
This question is all about seeing how you handle tough ethical decisions and communicate under pressure, especially when it involves a vulnerable patient like a pregnant woman.
Tips
- Start by prioritizing the mother's life; make it clear that her health is the top concern.
- Involve a team of specialists to show you value collaborative decision-making.
- Explain the risks and benefits in simple terms, making sure the patient and family feel heard and understood.
Common mistakes
- Don't downplay the risks to the fetus or ignore the patient's anxiety.
- Avoid a one-sided approach; make sure to include the patient in the decision-making process.
- Steer clear of vague statements about risks; be specific and clear about what the radiation exposure means.