3 Questions You Should Ask Your Patient Today
My 3 Favorite Questions
These are my 3 favorite questions that help me really connect with my patients. (these are included in the 35 Motivational Interviewing Questions Cheat Sheet in the Behavior Change Toolkit)
1. “What do you already know about XYZ (healthy eating, protein, weight loos)?”
Why it works: Starting with this question helps you understand your patient’s baseline knowledge. It opens the door for them to share what they’ve picked up—whether from past advice, media, or personal experiences. More importantly, it gives you insight into their beliefs and potential misconceptions. You’d be surprised by how much they know. When you ask this question, you won’t be wasting precious time giving them advice about something they already know.
2. “What do you think has been the biggest challenge for you?”
Why it works: This question is gold for uncovering obstacles. It invites your patient to reflect on what’s holding them back, which can often reveal deeper issues beyond the surface-level “I just don’t have time” response. Maybe it’s emotional eating, or perhaps they feel overwhelmed by having to cook at home. When you understand their real struggle, you can tailor your advice to address the root cause, making your guidance far more effective.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Imagine if you felt confident answering your patient's nutrition questions?
And you could provide advice that actually improved their health outcomes?
Right now you're reading a small part of the Nutrition Wrap-Up newsletter.
I release a NEW issue like this each Sunday.
Join 1,000+ smart clinicians who read the Nutrition Wrap-Up weekly.
Subscribe today to get the latest issue (plus a few helpful freebies)
---------------------------------------------------------------------
3. “What’s the easiest thing you could change right now?”
Why it works: Change can feel daunting, but this question makes it manageable. By focusing on something easy, you empower your patient to take that crucial first step.
Which question will you use today?
Steal 32 more questions just like these when you grab the Behavior Change Toolkit!
❤️ Your Nutrition Mentor,
Colleen
Colleen Sloan
PA-C, RDN and Founder of Exam Room Nutrition
Colleen Sloan received her Masters of Medical Science from Nova Southeastern University and has been a practicing Pediatric PA since 2017. Prior to going to PA school, she worked as a Registered Dietitian helping patients on their weight loss journey. Her goal with Exam Room Nutrition podcast is to bridge the gap between medicine and nutrition. She loves animals, a good cup of coffee and reading books with her 14 year old daughter.
