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According to The Wall Street Journal, an oncologist is estimated to deliver bad news as many as 20,000 times in his or her career.
Certainly, locum tenens doctors in some fields of medicine may not be required to struggle with so many difficult conversations, but bad news is unavoidable in healthcare. Sometimes, a patient simply is not going to get better.
Delivering bad news will never be comfortable. It is, however, a skill. With knowledge and practice, you can be better at both delivering bad news and comforting your patients and their families.
Respect and dignity
Delivery is a critical component of giving bad news. A private, comfortable setting is nearly as important as the words used. Expect reactions ranging from sadness to stunned disbelief to even anger. Be kind, and allow these intense emotional responses to play out in the most dignified setting available.
Who hears the news?
Remember that patients aren't alone when receiving bad news. There are other audiences to consider. Family members may have concerns and questions of their own. Medical news may have implications for a patient's employer or insurance provider.
Speak openly and without delay
Speak clearly and with direct purpose when giving bad news. Then be still. Silence is an appropriate response to tragedy, sadness and similarly strong emotions. Don't leave, but stay quiet until emotion runs its course.
Solutions and silver linings
Witnessing grief is emotionally challenging. However, abandoning patients and concerned family members to cope with bad news alone may not be the most empathetic option.
Forbes listed the presentation of solutions and looking for positive opportunities among its 10 commandments for delivering bad news. It's reasonable to expect questions after bad news has a chance to sink in. Be available to offer options, alternative and next steps.