What is the appropriate action if a clinician asks you to explain a medical decision in your own words?

• A. Summarize the decision in your own words for the patient.
• B. Provide your medical opinion about the decision.
• C. Do not add or interpret beyond the clinician's message; restate the clinician's message faithfully and seek clarification if needed.
• D. Translate only the decision and omit caveats.

Answer: (C)

Accurate, faithful communication is essential in medical interpretation. When a clinician asks you to explain a decision in your own words, your role is to restate the clinician’s exact message to the patient without adding or interpreting beyond what was said. If something isn’t clear, ask the clinician for clarification rather than filling in with your own interpretation. The goal is for the patient to hear the same information the clinician conveyed, including any caveats, risks, or alternatives, so they can understand and participate in the decision. Paraphrasing or injecting your own medical opinions can alter meaning and overstep your role, while translating only the decision and omitting caveats would leave out crucial details the patient needs to know.