How do I explain to my patient how and why we are doing a mammogram, while giving her reassurance?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for guidance on how to explain the mammogram procedure to a patient, including the reasons for it and providing reassurance. This involves understanding the patient's potential anxieties and addressing them with clear and empathetic communication.
Answer
A mammogram is a breast X-ray for early cancer detection. Explain the process, reassure her callbacks are common and not always cancer, and address her concerns.
Explain that a mammogram is an X-ray of the breast used to detect early signs of breast cancer, emphasizing its role in early detection. Describe the procedure, and reassure the patient that callbacks for additional screening are common and don't automatically indicate cancer. Offer support and address any concerns.
Answer for screen readers
Explain that a mammogram is an X-ray of the breast used to detect early signs of breast cancer, emphasizing its role in early detection. Describe the procedure, and reassure the patient that callbacks for additional screening are common and don't automatically indicate cancer. Offer support and address any concerns.
More Information
It is important to communicate clearly and empathetically with patients about mammograms to ease anxiety and encourage regular screening.
Tips
Many patients fear the worst when called back for additional screening. Emphasize that callbacks are common and often due to non-cancerous reasons.
Sources
- Getting Called Back After a Mammogram - American Cancer Society - cancer.org
- Mammogram: What It Is, Purpose, Procedure, Results & Types - my.clevelandclinic.org
- Strategies enhancing the patient experience in mammography - sciencedirect.com
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