How do you go about educating patients on the risks of anesthesia?

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Part of the job requires you to educate patients and/or their caregivers on the potential risks, side effects, and complications of receiving anesthesia. To do so, you must be able to effectively communicate with patients to provide appropriate education, answer their questions and address their concerns. This question allows the interviewer to gain some insight into your communication style and skills as well as your patient approach. Describe ways that you are able to provide patients with the information they need to make informed decisions and strategies you use to answer questions, concerns and reassure patients.

"My approach is always straightforward and direct. I use simple language and terms and I'm honest about the risks and complications. I factually present the information, share my personal experience, and I give patients time to think about what I've said and ask questions. I'm always happy to answer questions that patients or caregivers have so that they can make the most informed decisions about their care. If it's an overwhelming amount of information, I provide literature or documents that they can review and have a copy of."

"I know that surgeries and procedures requiring anesthesia can be stressful for patients. Part of my job is to review the benefits and risks associated with anesthesia and it's something that I do on a daily basis with patients. When I enter a patient's room, I ensure all necessary parties are in the room, usually the patient themselves, then any caregivers, friends, or family that need to hear the information. I explain the benefits and the risks associated with anesthesia and any likelihood or possibility of complications. Patients often have questions, so I take the time to actively listen, answer their questions, and ensure they fully understand the information. My goal is for patients to feel safe and comfortable before a procedure, so I take extra time in this area of patient education."

"Typically, I start off by explaining things verbally and discussing the risks associated with receiving anesthesia. I then review a printed document with the information discussed, as oftentimes patients are required to sign a form stating I have reviewed the risks associated. This is usually a pretty straightforward process, however, patients often have questions and I'm always happy to answer them and take my time explaining things or reassuring them that we take every precaution to keep them safe."