Call the palliative care team for help with a medically stable patient whose discharge is stalled by complex family conflict over goals of care.
This is an interactive phone call simulation. You'll speak with Dr. Soto (Palliative Care) in a realistic clinical communication scenario.
Click "Start Call" when you're ready. Speak naturally as you would on a real call.
10 minutes to complete the call. The AI responds in real-time to what you say.
End the call when finished. You'll receive AI-powered feedback on your communication.
💡 Tip: Speak clearly and at a natural pace. If you need a moment to think, it's okay to pause briefly - just as you would in a real conversation.
You are the primary physician for a patient who is medically ready for discharge, but the plan is stalled by a major conflict between family members about the right disposition. You need help facilitating a goals of care discussion. Your goal is to call the palliative care consultant, Dr. Soto, and clearly articulate the complex social and ethical problem, not just the medical facts.
History: 88F with severe dementia and debility was admitted after a fall at home. She had no major injuries but was treated for dehydration and worked with physical therapy. She is now back to her baseline.
Medical Status: She is medically stable for discharge. She is pleasant but non-verbal and completely dependent for all activities of daily living.
The Social Conflict: The patient has two children. The son, who is the legal healthcare proxy and lives locally, feels she is no longer safe at home and wants to transition her to a skilled nursing facility (SNF). The daughter, who lives out of state, is adamant that she must return home, believing a nursing home is a 'death sentence.' The conflict has escalated, and the discharge is on hold.
You have a patient who is medically stable but socially 'stuck.' This is not a medical consult in the traditional sense, but a request for expertise in communication and mediation.
Optional prep details
Optional self-check before you start
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After completing this scenario, you will be able to:
In a medically stable patient, what is the primary indication for a palliative care consult when family conflict is stalling discharge?
When framing your SBAR request to the palliative care consultant, which element is most critical to emphasize in this specific case?
What is an inappropriate 'ask' for a palliative care consultant in a family conflict scenario?