Community Health Worker (CHW) Practice Exam

Engaging patients with a structured, patient-centered communication approach is essential for shared decision-making. The five components are Listen, Explain, Acknowledge, Recommend, and Negotiate. Start by listening to the patient’s concerns, questions, and beliefs to understand their perspective and any cultural or personal barriers. Then Explain your understanding and provide information in plain language so the patient can follow what you’re saying. Next, Acknowledge the patient’s emotions, values, and cultural context, validating their point of view. After that, Recommend a plan or options that fit the medical evidence and the patient’s situation. Finally, Negotiate a feasible plan, incorporating the patient’s input and practical constraints, and agree on the next steps. This order supports understanding, respect, and collaboration, which is why it matches the LEARN model. Other options replace or omit steps in a way that shifts toward unilateral guidance rather than joint decision-making.