Breaking Bad News Flashcards
What is the model to use when breaking bad news?
Setting Perception Invitation Knowledge Emotions Summary
What is does the SPIKES approach consist of when breaking bad news?
. Make sure you are in a private and comfortable setting
. Confirm that you are speaking to the correct patient
. Get an idea of their knowledge of the situation, do they know why they are here?
. Ask what they would like to know and if they would like to know
. Give a warning shot something like ‘I’m afraid I don’t have good news’
. Explain the news simply and clearly
. Respect their feelings and emotions, be empathetic
. Recap, plan their next steps and offer support
What phrases can you use to show you are empathetic?
. ‘ I understand this must be very difficult for you to hear’
. ‘ I’m very sorry about this’
What must you not do when breaking bad news?
. Don’t lie or falsely reassure
. Don’t make facts up, only stick to what you have been given.
. If the patient wants to know more, say ‘ I’ll find out and let you know’
You are one of the senior consultants on the respiratory ward. You have to tell a patients family member that their lung cancer is terminal. The patient is called Mohammed and you are speaking to Mr Ahmed, their father.
Act this out and give response. Make sure to use the SPIKES method, be empathetic and give the patient time to process their emotions, don’t talk over them or try and fill the silence.
