10.1 Breaking Bad News Flashcards Preview

Semester 3- HPHD > 10.1 Breaking Bad News > Flashcards

Flashcards in 10.1 Breaking Bad News Deck (14)
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1
Q

Give 3 examples when bad news must be given

A

If terminally ill
If diagnosed with a debilitating condition
Around miscarriage

2
Q

Why may some patients not see bad news as a bad thing?

A

Got a diagnosis
Can be treated
Less pain
Not a burden on carers

3
Q

Give 3 reasons for varying the amount of bad news given

A
The patient's wishes
The patient's understanding of their condition
The nature of the condition
The complexity of treatment
The risk of the treatment
4
Q

Why is it important to tell patients bad news?

A
To maintain a good relationship
To reduce uncertainty
To prevent unrealistic expectations
To allow adjustment
To promote open communication
5
Q

Why is it difficult to break bad news?

A
Empathy for patient
Feel like you have failed as a doctor
Want to protect patient
May be unsure of their reaction
Can be time-consuming
6
Q

What may happen if bad news is given poorly?

A

Damage patient-doctor relationship

Patient may become distressed

7
Q

What does the acronym SPIKES stand for?

A
Setting and listening skills
Patient perspective
Information
Knowledge
Empathy
Summary and strategy
8
Q

In breaking bad news, what comes under the ‘setting’ heading of SPIKES?

A
Breaking news face-to-face
Ensure privacy
Ensure there is enough time
Find out who the patient wants present
Eye contact
Introduce yourself
Listen well
9
Q

In breaking bad news, what comes under the ‘patient’s perception’ heading of SPIKES?

A

What does the patient know already?

10
Q

In breaking bad news, what comes under the ‘information’ heading of SPIKES?

A

Don’t assume the patient want to know everything, respect decline of information, allow for denial of information

11
Q

In breaking bad news, what comes under the ‘knowledge’ heading of SPIKES?

A

give information in small chunks, start gently, warn them bad news is coming, check understanding, do not use jargon, explain clearly

12
Q

In breaking bad news, what comes under the ‘empathy’ heading of SPIKES?

A

Respond to patient’s emotions, validate emotions, listen to concerns

13
Q

In breaking bad news, what comes under the ‘summary and strategy’ heading of SPIKES?

A

Summarise conversation, check understanding, agree on next step of treatment, give opportunity to ask questions, ask if they want anyone to be contacted

14
Q

What is the definition of bad news?

A

Information that drastically alters a patient’s view of the future for the worst