1. B (Introduce yourself) WHY: The first step is always to introduce yourself and explain your role.
2. No (You should not ignore a patient's hesitation) WHY: "Aahs" "ums" or hesitating can signal discomfort and should be explored directly, such as "I notice you are hesitating...are you having other thoughts about this?"
3. A, B and C (Touch the patient's arm, shoulder or hold their hand) WHY: Touch can be therapeutic, but only if done in a culturally-appropriate and non-invasive manner.
4. No (You are not obligated to give details to a patient who requests not to hear them) WHY:If a patient discloses to you that they do not want to know the details of their diagnosis/prognosis, you are not obligated to tell them (and should respect their wishes by only giving them the level of detail they desire).
5. A, B and D (Summarize, ask patient to summarize their understanding, answer questions) WHY: Do not "hurry" the discussion with the patient. The patient will have plenty of time alone later; this is your chance to answer their questions and acknowledge their emotions.
6. No (You should not use the exact clinical terminology) WHY: Do not use confusing medical jargon with patients. Using simple terms and explanations does not insult their intelligence, rather it empowers them to understand the news. If your patient has healthcare or related education, you can use technical terms with them.
7. Sitting by the bed (not standing) WHY: Standing by the bed results in you looking down on the patient, creating a power differential rather than a personal conversation.
8. A, B, C (Turn off your cell phone, find a private space and ensure you understand the patient's case) WHY: The news should not be discussed with the patient's family unless the patient has expressed that they would rather you share the news with the family.
9. Yes (You should frame the prognosis in both positive and negative ways) WHY: Framing the statistical part of the news in a positive and negative way can increase patient understanding.
10. Choice 1 (Standing close to patient with hand on their shoulder making eye contact) WHY: The doctor in the second picture is not being attentive, has the laptop between them and his standing posture and distance from the patient suggests he is impatient.