3 ways to improve your delivery of bad news to patients

On July 3, 2015, at approximately 2:00 a.m., I was awakened by my mobile phone ringing.  I looked at the number the call was originating from and was fearful this was the call I was dreading to receive.  My mother’s long-term care facility was calling, and the news was not good.  My mother was found without a pulse and was rushed to a local hospital. I called the emergency department of the local hospital and spoke to a physician. He proceeded to tell me all the medical procedures done to my mother.  He said nothing worked and mother did not make it.  He was friendly, yet business-like in his tone.  He said he would be available for any questions.  He never made any type of sympathetic statement. My brother and I rushed to the emergency department, and a nurse took us to a private room.  Based on her body language and voice, she seemed visibly uncomfortable sharing the news.  She stumbled on her words. I could understand that giving bad news is challenging.  She reiterated what was done and asked if we wanted to see my mother’s body.  She never made any type of sympathetic statement, but she did say, “Our bodies were not meant to last forever.” Continue reading ... Your patients are rating you online: How to respond. Manage your online reputation: A social media guide. Find out how.
Source: Kevin, M.D. - Medical Weblog - Category: Journals (General) Authors: Tags: Patient Primary care Source Type: blogs