Communication Skills in Healthcare

Which of the following is the most important first step in starting communication with a patient?

• Asking about the main complaint immediately

• Greeting the patient and introducing yourself

• Writing down the patient’s identity silently

• Checking the patient’s vital signs

• Asking about family history

A good example of empathy in communication is:

• Interrupting the patient to speed up the consultation

• Listening carefully and saying, “I understand this must be difficult for you.”

• Giving a detailed explanation without asking patient’s feelings

• Using medical jargon so the patient learns new terms

• Avoiding eye contact to show neutrality

Which statement best describes active listening?

• Nodding, making eye contact, and allowing the patient to finish speaking

• Asking multiple questions at once without waiting for answers

• Correcting the patient’s words immediately

• Taking notes without looking at the patient

• Explaining treatment before hearing the complaint

In the doctor–patient relationship, treating the patient as an equal partner means:

• Allowing only the doctor to decide on therapy

• Involving the patient in decision-making about treatment

• Giving instructions without asking for consent

• Avoiding discussion about patient’s expectations

• Ending the conversation as soon as diagnosis is clear

Which of the following is an example of an open-ended question?

• “When did the pain start?”

• “Is the pain sharp or dull?”

• “Do you have any allergies?”

• “Can you tell me more about how you are feeling?”

• “Is your fever higher than 38°C?”

If a patient looks worried before an examination, the doctor should first:

• Ignore the feeling and proceed with the exam

• Tell the patient that the procedure is always safe

• Prepare the patient emotionally and explain what will happen

• Ask the nurse to calm the patient instead

• Delay the exam until the patient leaves

Why is summarizing the patient’s complaint important in communication?

• To correct medical terminology

• To make the patient speak less

• To check understanding and allow the patient to add information

• To save time and end the consultation quickly

• To avoid asking further questions

Which of the following is the most respectful way to close a consultation?

• Leave the room without saying goodbye

• Summarize, ask if the patient has questions, and thank them

• Write the prescription silently and hand it over

• Tell the patient to follow instructions strictly and leave

• Discuss only with the patient’s family