When answering a 'select all that apply' question, on what should you base your selections?

The focus when answering a 'select all that apply' question should be on the question itself. This means thoroughly reading and understanding the wording of the question, as it often contains key details that guide you in determining which options are correct. The specificity of the question is crucial because it outlines the parameters of what constitutes an appropriate selection.

Your previous choices may inform your thinking but do not dictate your next decision, as each question is independent. Relying solely on a gut feeling can lead to inaccuracy, as intuition may not always align with clinical knowledge or the specifics of the question. While general knowledge can certainly support your reasoning, it is the direct reference to the question's criteria that ultimately ensures the selections are aligned with what is being asked. Focusing on the content and context of the question itself enables a more accurate and thoughtful approach in this format of questioning.