From the Guidelines
The best tactic to get accurate information from a patient who is not being forthcoming is to ask open-ended questions (option C). When patients are reluctant to share information, creating a non-judgmental environment where they feel safe to communicate is essential 1. Open-ended questions encourage patients to explain their situation in their own words rather than providing simple yes or no answers. This approach allows the doctor to gather more comprehensive information while building rapport and trust. Some key strategies to consider when asking open-ended questions include:
- Orienting the patient to the discussion and explaining the purpose of the conversation 1
- Using simple language tailored to the patient's educational level and avoiding jargon 1
- Providing information in small doses and checking for comprehension 1
- Acknowledging and naming the patient's emotions to create a supportive environment 1 Direct questions may feel confrontational and lead to defensive responses, while threatening patients or offering gifts are unethical approaches that violate professional boundaries and may damage the doctor-patient relationship. Additionally, using empathetic statements, explaining the importance of accurate information for proper diagnosis and treatment, and ensuring confidentiality can further encourage patients to be more forthcoming with critical health information. It is also important to be cautious when providing information to patients who are emotional, as they may have difficulty absorbing and processing the information 1. By taking a patient-centered approach and using open-ended questions, doctors can build trust and gather more accurate information, ultimately leading to better health outcomes.
From the Research
Effective Communication Strategies
To gather accurate and real information from a patient who is not being forthcoming, several tactics can be employed. The most effective approach is to:
- Ask open-ended questions, which allow patients to discuss their concerns freely 2
- Use patient-centered communication skills, such as eliciting the patient's agenda with open-ended questions, active listening, and expressing empathy 3
- Apply guiding principles and behaviors to manage difficult interactions, including remaining attentive to the patient and the interaction 4
Ineffective Tactics
In contrast, the following approaches are not recommended:
- Threatening the patient or involving law enforcement is unlikely to yield accurate information and may damage the doctor-patient relationship
- Offering gifts in exchange for truthful information is unethical and may be considered coercive
- Asking direct questions may not provide a complete understanding of the patient's concerns or experiences
Key Considerations
When interacting with patients, it is essential to: