A relative dominating the consultation

Setting: A supported outpatient appointment

An adult patient attends with a relative but wants space to speak. No capacity concern is supplied; the patient chooses how the relative is involved.

Task

Explore the concern behind this opening: My brother means well, but he answers every question before I can speak.
Clarify the patient perspective using an appropriate follow-up, such as: How would you like your brother involved in the conversation?
Explain the supplied information and its limits in manageable sections.
Explore practical barriers and agree a workable next step from the supplied options.
Check the patient understanding and identify any unresolved question.

A relative dominating the consultation supplied information

An adult patient attends with a relative but wants space to speak. No capacity concern is supplied; the patient chooses how the relative is involved.
We can agree how the conversation works before continuing. I can address questions to you first and then invite your brother to add anything you want him to add.
Support from a relative does not mean I should replace your account with theirs. I cannot assume what you want without asking you.
We can have a short private discussion and invite him back for the practical plan if you agree. I can explain the arrangement without blaming him.
I will check your permission again before sharing anything from our private discussion with your brother.

Fictional scenario information supplied for exam communication practice only; not medical guidance for real patients.