You have diagnosed a symptomatic inguinal hernia that needs repair, but the patient strongly prefers to avoid surgery. How would you address their concerns and what would you consider in deciding whether to respect their wish or insist on surgery?
Specialty-Specific
Purpose
This question checks how well you can communicate with patients and handle their concerns while balancing their wishes with medical advice. It’s all about showing empathy and ethical reasoning.
Tips
- Start by really listening to the patient’s concerns and validating their feelings.
- Clearly explain the diagnosis, benefits of surgery, and risks of not having it in simple terms.
- Encourage shared decision-making, making sure the patient feels involved in their care.
Common mistakes
- Don’t dismiss the patient’s concerns without exploring them first.
- Avoid using medical jargon that might confuse the patient.
- Don’t pressure the patient into surgery; instead, focus on educating them and respecting their choice.