Medical Emergencies · single question
A patient in athletic wear presents with atrial fibrillation. He is rushed, wants everything done quickly, and is taking anticoagulants. In managing this patient, which of the following is LEAST appropriate?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Directly confront and challenge the patient's behavior
D) Confront the patient — CORRECT (least appropriate).
Confronting or directly challenging a stressed, type-A personality patient is the LEAST appropriate approach. This can escalate anxiety, increase cardiac stress (dangerous in a patient with atrial fibrillation), and damage the therapeutic relationship. Appropriate management of a rushed, medically complex patient includes: short appointments, clear communication, proactive planning for post-op care, and gentle redirection — not confrontation.
A) Short appointments: Appropriate — reduces stress and fatigue for a cardiac patient.
B) Clear explanation: Appropriate — informed consent requires adequate explanation even if the patient wants to rush.
C) Proactive analgesics: Good patient management — anticipating needs reduces post-operative stress.
Confronting or directly challenging a stressed, type-A personality patient is the LEAST appropriate approach. This can escalate anxiety, increase cardiac stress (dangerous in a patient with atrial fibrillation), and damage the therapeutic relationship. Appropriate management of a rushed, medically complex patient includes: short appointments, clear communication, proactive planning for post-op care, and gentle redirection — not confrontation.
A) Short appointments: Appropriate — reduces stress and fatigue for a cardiac patient.
B) Clear explanation: Appropriate — informed consent requires adequate explanation even if the patient wants to rush.
C) Proactive analgesics: Good patient management — anticipating needs reduces post-operative stress.
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