How would you approach and express your concern for a young patient that needs to have an arm amputated?

During your medical school MMI process, you can expect a few scenarios that put you in a difficult spot with patients. While the actual scenarios can differ widely, you can do yourself a service by practicing your approach to these questions with a friend or loved one before your multiple mini interview. In that practice, try to be as empathetic as possible while educating the patient on the next necessary steps.

During your MMI interview, you'll have time to lay out what you will do before the conversation, how you will talk with the young patient, and what follow-up you will conduct as necessary. In your approach with the patient, make sure that you discuss how you will include the family members. Your interviewer at this MMI station will focus on your empathy for the patient and your use of your professional expertise and judgment to explain why the amputation is necessary.

"This is a difficult scenario that requires preparation, a consoling attitude, and reassurance for the patient and their loved ones. My first step would be to review all of the medical notes and test results and ensure that there are no other options for treatment for the patient. Once I was confident that this was the last medical option for the patient, I would approach them as quickly as possible. When discussing the need to amputate the arm in order to save the patient's life, my goal would be to ensure that they understand this is the only treatment possible. I would give them time to ask questions and then work with them to lay out a plan for the procedure. The most important step from there is assuring them that everything will be okay. I wouldn't hesitate to connect them with experts on prosthetics and physical therapy to ensure that they were up and running in no time following the procedure."