Legal, Ethical and Organizational… (Communication) — 45yo Patient | Communication & Professionalism | MCCQE1 Q#13573
MCCQE1 Question #13573
Dimension of Care
Health Promotion & Illness Prevention
Activity
Communication
Objective
Legal, Ethical and Organizational Aspects
Section
Public Health / Ethics / Legal / Organizational (PHELO/PMCH)
Subject
Communication & Professionalism
Last updated: February 2026
A 45-year-old patient with metastatic pancreatic cancer is admitted to an inpatient oncology unit for symptom management. Imaging and biopsy results confirm that no curative treatment options remain, and the team anticipates a transition to palliative-focused care. The attending physician plans a family meeting and suggests that the bedside nurse and a social worker join the discussion.
The patient is capable and asks that the discussion occur with them present and that their partner be included.
What is the primary rationale for disclosing bad news as a healthcare team?
Full answer analysis and choices are available inside the practice session.
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