Tips & Tricks for OET exam preparation for doctors – Part II

6.     **Explain Clearly and Offer Small Steps**:
– **Break down complex information** into manageable, simple steps. Anxious patients

may struggle with processing too much information at once.
– For example, instead of discussing long-term treatment plans, focus on what can be done

immediately: “Right now, let’s focus on getting you comfortable.”

7. **Maintain a Positive but Honest Outlook**:
   – Provide optimism where appropriate: “We’ll work through this together, and I’ll make sure

you’re well taken care of.”
– Avoid making promises you can’t keep, as broken expectations can increase anxiety later.

8. **Ask Open-Ended Questions**:
   – Instead of asking questions like, “Are you okay?”, try “What is worrying you the most right

now?” This encourages the patient to open up about specific fears.

9. **Physical Comfort**:
   – If the patient is physically uncomfortable, ask if they need adjustments (e.g.,

repositioning in bed or a drink of water). Small acts of care can help soothe their anxiety.

10. **Create a Quiet and Comfortable Environment**:
    – If possible, reduce noise and distractions in the room. A quiet, calm environment can

reduce overstimulation, which can often worsen anxiety.

Using these approaches, you can help patients feel more grounded and in control, which can go a long way in easing their anxiety. Would you like more details on any of these techniques?

The **PEARLS** acronym for communication in healthcare was developed by Dr. Calvin L. Chou and Dr. Kelley M. Skeff. Both are medical educators and physicians who have focused extensively on doctor-patient communication. Dr. Chou, in particular, is a clinical professor at UCSF and a specialist in communication skills training for healthcare providers.

Their work has emphasized improving relationships with patients by using structured empathy and support, helping providers better navigate difficult conversations while building rapport. PEARLS is commonly used in medical education to teach clinicians how to enhance patient-centered care.

PEARLS** is a communication technique often used in medical settings to enhance rapport and trust between healthcare providers and patients. It stands for:

1. **P**artnership: Collaborating with the patient to make them feel they are an active participant in their care.

– Example: “Let’s work together on a plan that suits you best.”

2. **E**mpathy: Acknowledging and validating the patient’s emotions and feelings.
   – Example: “I can see that this is really hard for you, and I’m sorry you’re going through

this.”

3. **A**pology: Expressing regret or sympathy for any discomfort, fear, or inconvenience the patient is experiencing.

– Example: “I’m sorry you’ve been in pain for so long.”

4. **R**espect: Showing appreciation for the patient’s experience, values, and concerns. – Example: “I really respect how you’ve been handling this situation.”
5. **L**egitimization: Normalizing the patient’s feelings and helping them understand that their emotions are valid.

– Example: “It’s completely understandable to feel anxious about this.”

6. **S**upport: Offering reassurance and commitment to help the patient. – Example: “I’m here to support you, and we’ll get through this together.”