Pre PACES Podcast #4 Breaking Bad News
10 snips
Mar 14, 2021 Dr Tessa Nicholas, a post-CMT doctor with palliative care and oncology training, outlines practical communication strategies. Short segments cover station structure and virtual changes. The SPIKES six-step approach is explained step-by-step. Practical tips on introductions, handling emotions, errors and planning next steps are discussed.
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Use Prep Time To Anchor Your Consultation
- Use the five minutes preparation to read the brief and jot down key points without copying everything verbatim.
- Focus on the word labeled Problem so you instantly know the consultation's aim, for example "dealing with a terminal illness".
Video Calls Need More Verbal Reassurance
- Virtual stations change how you demonstrate empathy because nonverbal cues and touch are limited.
- Compensate by leaning in, using eye contact and explicit verbal reassurances when video conferencing.
Prioritise Safety And Say Sorry For Errors
- When discussing clinical errors, prioritise patient safety, check for harm, and apologise where appropriate.
- Explore what the patient already knows, explain clearly, and say sorry to acknowledge the human element.