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, which often reveals more complete information. This approach demonstrates respect for the patient's autonomy and builds trust in the doctor-patient relationship. Some key strategies to improve patient-clinician communication include:
- Avoiding unnecessary delays in providing information [ 1 ]
- Communicating with consultants and others involved in the patient’s care to ensure coherent recommendations and information [ 1 ]
- Using simple language tailored to the patient’s educational level [ 1 ]
- Avoiding jargon and explaining medical terminology in lay language [ 1 ]
- Providing information that is relevant to what the patient wants to know and to the patient’s goals [ 1 ] Threatening patients (option A) is unethical and destroys trust, while direct questions (option B) may lead to minimal or defensive responses when a patient is already hesitant. Offering gifts for truthfulness (option D) creates inappropriate incentives and ethical problems. Additionally, complementing open questions with reflective listening, normalizing difficult topics, and explaining the importance of accurate information for proper treatment can further encourage patient honesty [ 1 ].
From the Research
Effective Communication Strategies
To gather accurate and real information from a patient, the following tactics can be employed:
- Ask an open question: This approach allows patients to discuss their concerns freely and has been shown to be an efficient method for gathering medical information 2, 3, 4.
- Use open-ended phrases: Phrases like "What questions do you have?" can elicit patients' questions and concerns, particularly for patients with lower health literacy skills 4.
- Engage in focused active listening: Understanding the patient's perspective and expressing empathy are key features of patient-centered communication 3.
- Avoid interrupting the patient: Allowing the patient to fully express their thoughts and concerns can help build trust and gather more accurate information 3, 5.
Ineffective Strategies
The following tactics are not recommended:
- Threatening the patient: This approach can lead to feelings of fear and mistrust, making it less likely to gather accurate information.
- Offering a gift in exchange for truth: This tactic can be seen as coercive and may not elicit honest information.
- Asking direct questions only: While direct questions can be useful, relying solely on this approach may not gather as much information as open-ended questions 2, 6.