30sec Test-Taking Tip for Ethics Questions
Here's how to get a few free points on ethics and communication questions:
It's (almost) never wrong to ask for more info! This includes answer choices that:
Ask the patient a question (e.g. "Have you been having thoughts of self-harm?")
Seek more context or perspectives (e.g. "I'd like to hear more about your concerns")
If multiple choices seek more information, ignore the ones that don't. Then choose the option that most directly and respectfully explores the patient's perspective.
A few rare examples of exceptions:
Urgent, complex consent dilemmas: If a parent refuses an emergency life-saving surgery for their child, questions like "Is there a non-operative alternative you'd prefer?" would delay intervention and falsely imply that the parent has the right to refuse medically necessary treatment.
Confidentiality: If someone asks for private patient information, a response like "I share your concerns, but may I ask how you are related to her?" would inadvertently divulge that you know the patient.
Brain death: If a patient meets criteria for brain death, they're legally deceased, so questions like "Would you like us to consider experimental treatments?" would provide false uncertainty and hope.
So remember: when in doubt, ask before telling!
