How to interview a patient with a breast lump
Other platforms explain it with text and video. In VMS you practice it on the patient.
Most breast lumps are benign, but every new lump needs assessment. The history guides how urgent it is.
Step by step
Introduce yourself and offer a chaperone
Explain each question and that you will examine both breasts. [1]
The lump
When and how it was found, size changes, change with the menstrual cycle, pain. [2]
Skin and nipple
Dimpling, redness, nipple pulling in, discharge (bloody is a concern). [2]
Armpit and body
Lumps in the armpit, bone pain, weight loss. [2]
Risk factors
Age, family history of breast or ovarian cancer, past breast biopsies, hormone therapy, chest radiation. [2]
Screening history
Last mammogram and results. [2]
Summarize and plan
Explain the exam and imaging. [1]
Common errors
- Reassuring before examining.
- Missing nipple or skin changes.
- Not asking about family history.
Practice it in VMS
In VMS you do this on the patient, not on paper: every step goes on the checklist with a score, and in Teach mode Blocky tells you what comes next.
VMS cases that train this skill
Sources
- AAMC Core Entrustable Professional Activities (Core EPAs)
- NCCPA PANCE Content Blueprint
- NBOME COMLEX-USA clinical presentations
Facts and steps follow NBOME COMLEX-USA clinical presentations; NCCPA PANCE Content Blueprint; AAMC Core Entrustable Professional Activities (Core EPAs). VMS is not affiliated with these organizations. Updated: 2026-10-11.