Lesson 8.3 — Mock 3: Statin Refusal After a Friend’s Side Effects
Candidate Page
Discuss cardiovascular risk and management with a patient who has been advised to consider a statin.
Consult naturally. Do not try to force every communication skill into the case. Identify the patient’s agenda and use it to shape the consultation.
Role-Player Brief
You are strongly reluctant because your friend developed muscle pains. You fear being unable to care for your grandchildren.
If the candidate explores well
- If asked what matters most, explain that you provide childcare three days a week.
- If risks are discussed in balanced language, become open to considering treatment.
If the candidate misses the cue
- If candidate argues immediately, become more resistant.
- If they ignore childcare, repeat: “I can’t be in pain looking after the kids.”
- Understand the refusal before persuading.
- Explore the functional meaning of side effects.
- Share benefits/risks without alarmism.
- Support an informed decision.
The goal is not to 'win'. It is to make a safe decision with a patient who feels heard and understands the trade-offs.
| Reflection | Yes / Partly / No | Evidence from the consultation |
|---|---|---|
| I found the real agenda. | ||
| I responded to the key cue. | ||
| My explanation used patient-specific information. | ||
| The plan was shared and clinically owned. | ||
| My safety-net was specific. | ||
| I sounded natural rather than scripted. |