Sample interview questions: How do you approach end-of-life care discussions with patients who have limited decision-making capacity in critical care?
Sample answer:
Approaching End-of-Life Care Discussions with Patients with Limited Decision-Making Capacity
1. Assess Capacity and Establish Surrogate Decision-Making:
* Evaluate patient’s cognitive function using validated screening tools.
* Identify appropriate surrogate decision-makers (e.g., legal guardians, family members) legally empowered to make decisions on the patient’s behalf.
2. Engage in Sensitive and Respectful Communication:
* Use clear and concise language, avoiding medical jargon.
* Allow patients and surrogates to express their values, beliefs, and wishes.
* Empower patients by providing information and involving them in decision-making to the extent possible.
3. Discuss Treatment Goals and Options:
* Explain the patient’s medical condition and prognosis.
* Present the available treatment options and their potential benefits and burdens.
* Respect patient and surrogate preferences even if they differ from the healthcare team’s recommendations.
4. Explore Advance Directives and Patient Autonomy:
* Inquire about existing advance dir… Read full answer
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