A physician is evaluating a boy whose mother is concerned about his height. What should the physician's response focus on?

The most appropriate response in this situation is to engage in an open-ended exploration of the mother's concerns. This approach allows the physician to gather more information about her specific worries, such as how long she has been concerned about her son's height, the context of his growth compared to peers, any familial patterns of height, and other relevant medical history. By actively listening and understanding her perspective, the physician can provide tailored advice and reassurance, as well as the opportunity to address any misconceptions or fears she might have.

This method fosters a supportive environment where the mother feels heard and validated. It also sets the stage for further discussion about growth patterns, potential growth delays, or normal variations in height among children, rather than jumping straight into statistics or a diagnosis without fully understanding the situation. Engaging in this dialogue is essential for establishing a rapport and promoting effective communication in pediatric care.