Asking Good Questions
A good question will usually get a good answer. A bad question almost always gets a bad answer. Surprised?
Instructors, try this patient assessment activity with your students. Think of an ailment or injury that you are suffering. Each student can ask one question. Start at one side of the room and work your way around the room answering the students’ questions.
If you are asked a 'yes' or 'no' question (i.e. "Do you have any allergies?"), then answer, "Yes" or "No."
If you are asked the better question ("What are your allergies?"), then list your allergies. A sharp class will then ask the logical follow-up questions about your allergies:
• Have you been exposed to any of those allergens?
• What happens when you are exposed?
• What treatment do you need for your allergic reaction?
Real patients answer 'yes' or 'no' questions with 'yes' or 'no' answers. Only students practicing assessment skills with one another answer, "Do you take any medications?" with a long list of medication names and doses.
In real life. good questions get good answers.
Got a question for Greg? Use the comments area to ask.
