I've spent a week in a specialist department in a hospital. During the week I have sat in several clinics in which patients have had their diagnosis revealed to them. There has been some unbelievably heart breaking moments during this last week. Listening to people hear they have a diagnosis of cancer: it is a reminder of just how fragile life is. I have been so lucky to be involved in such a professional and supportive team, however. A team of consultants, surgeons and specialist nurses who are focussed on delivering patient centred care. So, I've listened to some heart breaking conversations this week, but I've noticed something. One female consultant, in particular was extremely skilled in how she delivered bad news to her patients. There was something in the way she delivered news with empathy and compassion that seemed to almost soften the blow. Watching as an outsider it was nice to see how she levelled with the patient, and spoke to them in a calming tone that seemed to reflect the warmth of her character. She explained, in terms that were understandable. And, most importantly, she reassured them without misleading them and provided them with reams of information, before ensuring they knew her door is always open if they need to talk.
This week has been eye-opening in how to break bad news to patients. I've watched consultants and nurses deliver life changing news to patients and have learnt how to cope to reactions. It's nice to see people show humanity and it is restorative of faith in human kind. Watching people empathise and watching how people care has been a magnificent learning opportunity.
- Loola.
This week has been eye-opening in how to break bad news to patients. I've watched consultants and nurses deliver life changing news to patients and have learnt how to cope to reactions. It's nice to see people show humanity and it is restorative of faith in human kind. Watching people empathise and watching how people care has been a magnificent learning opportunity.
- Loola.