Tag-Archive for ◊ Breaking bad news ◊

Author: jito soulfly
• Tuesday, July 20th, 2010

Breaking bad news is an inevitable part of medical practice
Most of us worry about ability to communicate
Relationship between doctor and patient important to focus in  communications skills

WHAT IS A BAD NEWS..??
Why is it difficult to give bad news??

may feel responsible and fears being blamed
not knowing how best to do it
possible inhibition
reluctance to change the exiting doctor-patient relationship
Fear of upsetting the patient’s exiting family roles

Not knowing the patient their resources and limitations
Fear of the implications for the patient
Fear of the patient’s emotional reaction
Uncertainty as to what may happen next
Lack of clarity about own role as a health-care provider

Options for managing difficult situations

To whom should bad news be given?
Who should give bad news?
When should bad news be given?
Should you give hope and reassurance along with bad news?

How to give bad news
There are five main consideration:
Personal preparation
The physical setting
Talking to the patient and responding to their concerns
Arranging follow-up or referral
Feedback and handover to professional colleagues