You are evaluating a collegiate athlete who has sustained multiple concussions in one season and is eager to continue playing. How do you approach their care and counsel them about the short- and long-term risks?
Specialty-Specific
Purpose
This question checks if you understand concussion management and how to prioritize an athlete's health over competitive pressures. Interviewers want to see if you can communicate tough news while advocating for the athlete's long-term safety.
Tips
- Start by emphasizing that the athlete's health is the top priority, no matter what.
- Discuss a thorough evaluation process, including their concussion history and current symptoms.
- Communicate clearly and empathetically about both short-term and long-term risks, using simple language.
Common mistakes
- Don't downplay the risks just to make the athlete feel better about playing.
- Avoid letting competitive pressure sway your medical judgment.
- Don't skip over important details about long-term consequences or fail to advocate firmly for the athlete's safety.