SPIKES Protocol Components — SCE Palliative Medicine MCQ
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Correct answer: B — S-Setting up, P-Perception, I-Invitation, K-Knowledge, E-Emotions, S-Strategy and Summary
Explanation lettering: C = shown as A · D = shown as B · E = shown as C · A = shown as D · B = shown as E
Option D is correct. The SPIKES protocol stands for Setting up, Perception, Invitation, Knowledge, Emotions, and Strategy and Summary. This mnemonic framework guides clinicians through structured communication when delivering serious or distressing news. 'Perception' probes the patient's current understanding; 'Invitation' assesses how much information the patient wishes to receive—a clinically important distinction absent from other options. Options A and C propose entirely different terms (Sitting, Preparing, Symptoms, Prognosis) that do not reflect the evidence-based protocol. Option B resembles generic project management, while Option E conflates clinical processes inaccurately. The SPIKES protocol is standard across UK palliative care practice, oncology, emergency medicine and is taught in all UK medical and specialist training.
Reference: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/conditions-and-diseases/cancer/palliative-care