breaking bad news
Last reviewed 01/2018
- have your facts right first
- meet in a quiet room
- meet in the presence of relatives or staff if possible
- use basic communication skills: use simple language, listen, follow up verbal and non-verbal cues
- build up gradually
- be truthful, gentle and courteous
- offer hope
- emphasize the positive
- allow questions
- may need to have a number of meetings
- offer support
- document and inform others of what has been said
- follow up the patient
Source:Dr Michael Cushen, St Elizabeth Hospice, Ipswich,5/96