Professional Practice Flashcards
steps for breaking bad news
setting: use a quiet room etc
perception: ask the patient directly what they already know
invitation: tell them that you have results to give them, and ask if they are ready to hear them
knowledge: break the bad news, then pause and give them time to react.
empathy: acknowledge the feelings
summary: offer support and senior review in this as well
when can you break confidentiality for police?
giving a broad assessment if immediate investigation of assaults
if in the public interest (consultant level decision)
the road traffic act (only name and address can be given)
what phrase can be used for discussing confidentiality with a family member
with their consent, we will keep you informed
how do you deal with a random person who calls up the hospital asking for an update on a family member?
encourage the caller to speak to the patient directly
otherwise inform the patient who the caller is, and offer to relay a message
apologise for not being able to offer any more information, say with their consent you will keep them informed
what is capacity
being able to comprehend and retain information that is relevant to medical decisions
what are the necessary requirements of capacity?
able to understand the information relevant to making the decision + consequences of refusal
retain information
weigh up the information
able to communicate
what should be done for a patient who lacks capacity + no next of kin to consult
appoint an independent mental capacity advocate
who can obtain consent from a patient?
only someone who is aware of the risk and benefits or a procedure
what should you do if in doubt of any consent issues?
seek senior advice or consult a medical defence unions
what to do straight away/within an hour after you’ve made a medical error
stabilise patient, call for senior support
correct where possible, apologising to the patient
if serious and you have time, start documenting events, including times
what should you do if you’ve made a medical error which is a serious incident
apologise and explain the event has taken place early
inform your senior / consultant immediately
where can patients make a complaint?
patient advice and liaison services -> they also provide more general advice and support for patients
what should you do with gifts from family members?
can only accept if it has negligible value
if money, pass this to the ward sister to put into the ward funds
