Bad News DPR (Dr Mohr) Flashcards
A major goal of information delivery is _______.
to get the patient to cooperate with the recommended treatment; compliance
Physicians generally fail to communicate information effectively due to: (3)
- Poor listening skills
- Understanding what patients already know
- Conceptualizing the situation with the patient
Most of the information delivered to patients tends to ______.
be difficult or even bad news
Why is delivering bad news difficult? (4)
- Fundamentally unpleasant
- Lack of training/role models - not addressed during residency
- Fear of emotional reaction
- Concern over admitting guild or responsibility;
Saying “I am sorry” does not equal?
claiming responsibility
Delivering bad news well….(4)
- Strengthens the physician-patient relationship
- Fosters collaboration
- Permits patients, families to cope
- Minimizes litigation if done well
ABCDE Mnemonic
A: Advanced Preparation B: Build a Therapeutic relationship C: Communicate Well D: Deal with patient and family reactions E: Encourage and Validate emotions
Advance Preparation:
Familiarize yourself with ___.
relevant clinical information
Advance Preparation:
Arrange for ____.
adequate time in private setting, turn pager/phone off
Advance Preparation:
Consider the environment ____.
seating, tissues available
Advance Preparation:
Mentally (or verbally) ____ and _____.
rehearse how you will deliver the news and Prepare emotionally (breathe)
How to build a Therapeutic Relationship? (3)
- Have a support person present
- Introduce yourself to everyone present
- Determine the patients’ preference for what and how much information they want
What if the family says “don’t tell the patient”? - the family (3)
- Acknowledge the families fears;
- Ask: why not tell them?
- Talk to the patient together
What if the family says “don’t tell the patient”? - Legally (2)
- Legal obligation to obtain informed consent from patient;
2. Law states that clinicians must provide as much information as the patient desires;
Build a Therapeutic Relationship: Delivering the news (4)
- When appropriate, foreshadow the bad news - don’t just drop the bomb
- Use touch when appropriate
- Avoid inappropriate humor and flip comments
- assure your pt you will be available; schedule a follow up