Irish Hospice Foundation
Toolkit for Compassionate End-of-Life Care
11
Breaking bad news News is any information that seriously affects a person’s view of their future. 1 It is the person receiving the news that decides if it is bad. As healthcare workers , we always need to be conscious that whenever we have to give a person information, for example, of a test result, a diagnosis, a change in condition. is may be perceived as bad news to that person. ink of breaking bad news as a process, not as a single event. It may take the person several conversations before they are able to grasp all that you are saying, especially if the information is complex.
Here are five recommended steps for breaking bad news:
Step 1: Prepare yourself
• Prepare, mentally and emotionally - think about yourself, the other person and the news itself. • Set time aside. Find a quiet, private room where you can avoid interruptions. Leave your phone or pager with a colleague. Never give sensitive news in public places, such as corridors. • Know the facts. Make sure you have the right person and the right results/news. Have options or treatment plans prepared to discuss with the person as appropriate. • If you are unable to stay with the person while they process the news, make sure there is someone who can.
Step 2: Make a good connection
• Welcome them, tell them your name and your role, and and ask them to take a seat. Sit down yourself and ensure your body language is open and engaging. • Find out what the person already knows: - “How were you feeling coming in here today?” - “How have you been since I saw you last?” - “What do you already know about your illness?” - “I haven’t met you before today. Maybe we could start off with you telling me a bit about your illness and how you’ve come to be here today?” • Find out how much they want to know: “I have your results—are you the sort of person who likes to know a lot or a little?” Remember that they have a right to know and to NOT know.
Communication 2
1. Buckman R. (1992) How to Break Bad News: A Guide for Health Care Professionals. University of Toronto Press, Toronto
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