You and your newly hired EMT partner arrive on the scene of a bicycle collision at the local community park. One cyclist stands by and says that she has no injuries. The other is lying on his side on the bike path, guarding his ribs and holding the lower part of his left leg. Your partner kneels next to the man, introduces herself, and asks, "Can you ambulate?" The patient looks up, confused and

Question

in obvious pain. "Can you ambulate? You know…walk?" Your partner says, a little louder. After transporting the patient, you discuss the call with your partner and suggest that she avoid using medical terms unnecessarily when talking with patients. She seems insulted and says, "Why?" What would you say?

A) You should say that you are an experienced EMT and since she is new, she should just take your advice and apply it.
B) Explain that using large words and medical terms can be seen as being egotistical, which can alienate both patients and other providers.
C) Tell her that the general public isn't smart enough to understand medical terminology and that all communication must be "dumbed down" when talking to patients.
D) Tell her that the point of communicating with patients and other providers is so there is clear understanding; using medical terms when not necessary can cause confusion.

Answer 1

D