Counselling and Giving Information

Question 1

Step 1 Opening

Answer 1

WIPE
Check the patient’s agenda
-is it ok for me to talk with you about …
-what were you expecting from today?
-is there anything else you would like to discuss with us today?

Question 2

Step 2 Checking prior knowledge and providing context

Answer 2

Before I start talking, I’d like to check what you already know. What do you understand about your condition?

Ok, so now I will talk you through the process

Try to link it to info that the patient has already mentioned

Question 3

Step 3 Chunking and checking

Answer 3

Break it down into chunks
Watch for non verbal cues of confusion
Would you be happy to explain back to me in your own words so we can check whether it all makes sense?
Agknowledge that this can be very complex

Avoid jargon

Invite them to ask questions

Question 4

Step 4 Safety netting and further support

Answer 4

Bring the conversation to a close by summarising what you’ve done

Offer further written materials or links if they wish to ready around the topic
Encourage them to keep in touch if they have any other questions