A 66-Year-Old, Previously Healthy Woman Is Admitted to the Hospital

question 108

Multiple Choice

A 66-year-old, previously healthy woman is admitted to the hospital due to recurrent hemoptysis.  Chest x-ray obtained in the emergency department shows a 10-cm perihilar mass in the right lung.  The patient undergoes bronchoscopic biopsy, which reveals non-small cell lung cancer.  When entering her room to disclose the biopsy results, the physician sees the patient eating lunch with family members and friends who have been at her bedside since admission.  They all appear anxious, and the patient tearfully tells the physician, "I've been dreading this moment.  I think I already know what my test results are."  Which of the following responses by the physician is most appropriate?

• A)"I don't want to disturb your lunch now, let me arrange a family meeting later to share your results."
• B)"Is there anyone you would like to remain in the room while we talk about your results?"
• C)"It can be easier to hear your results from a family member.  Is there someone I can talk to first?"
• D)"It's good that your family is here to support you now, because I have difficult news to share with you."
• E)"Tell me, what do you and your family members know and believe about your condition?"