Patient-Doctor Communication · USMLE Step 1

A patient with cancer asks, "Am I going to die soon?" What is the most appropriate response?

  1. Well, everyone dies eventually, you know.
  2. What have the other doctors already told you about this?
  3. Tell me what worries you most about your illness.
  4. Let's try not to focus on that difficult topic now.
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Correct answer: Tell me what worries you most about your illness.

Exploring underlying fears allows for sensitive and supportive communication.

Difficulty: Medium Question 15 of 20

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