Irish Hospice Foundation
Toolkit for Compassionate End-of-Life Care
9
Words • e words we use are very important. An inappropriate phrase can alter or undermine your message. • Avoid medical terminology and jargon. • Avoid using euphemisms, which can lead to confusion. Use words like ‘dying’, ‘died’, ‘dead’.
• If there is a mismatch between the words you use and the body language and tone of voice, then the words will lose their impact. e person will assign a meaning from the non-verbal communication and the tone of voice.
Useful resource: Discussing Dying e Discussing Dying short film has been developed by NHS Education for Scotland, with input from IHF, and aims to help healthcare professionals discuss dying openly and honestly with their patients.
Communicate clearly and honestly • Use simple language as this helps you get your message across. • Check if the person needs assistance in understanding information/the words used. • Consider age, cultural, cognitive and language abilities. • Avoid jargon and euphemisms. • Acknowledge difficult questions and respond appropriately based on your role. • ink of creative ways to demonstrate your message (e.g., draw pictures, use photos, images or videos). • Be comfortable with silence. • Paraphrase information and check understanding.
Sample phrases
What makes you ask that today?
What is your biggest worry at the moment? Help me understand what would help or comfort you.
I don’t know, but I will try to find someone who can help.
Would you like me to repeat that?
What do you understand by that?
I’ve given you a lot of information. Take some time to think about what we have spoken about, and we can chat again if you have further questions.
Communication 2
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