Questions to Ask the Doctor
It is important to have honest, open discussions with your doctors and nurses. Feel free to ask questions, even if they seem trivial. It is a good idea to write your questions down so you will remember to ask them during each appointment. Here are some important questions you may want to ask:
- What tests are needed? What do they involve?
- Can you explain the pathology report and test results?
- What is the histology of the tumor? Is it favorable or unfavorable?
- What stage is the cancer? Has it spread beyond the kidney?
- What are the treatment options? Which would you recommend?
- Will my child's case be discussed in a multi-disciplinary planning conference before any irrevocable treatment decisions are made?
- Would you recommend a clinical trial?
- What are the benefits, risks, and side effects of each treatment option?
- Do you have any advice on managing side effects?
- What are the chances of a recurrence?
- What will be the schedule for follow-up appointments?
