Breaking Bad News Flashcards
(11 cards)
What is the mnemonic for breaking bad news ?
SPIKES
What does the S represent in breaking bad news ? (3)
Setting: Appropriate setting: 1. Switch off bleep/ give it to college; 2. Turn to the examiner: find a private room, draw the curtains and shut the door, 3. Useful to have a person with me, e.g. nurse; ask the patient if they would like someone present
What does the P represent in breaking bad news ? (3)
Patients perception: ICE: Ideas and concerns: 1. understanding of what’s going on so far with regards to tests; concerns and expectations.
What does the I represent in breaking bad news ? 😭
Invitation: establish if patients would like to find out more information. Would you like me to tell you more about what’s going on ?
What does the K represent in breaking bad news ?
Knowledge: give warning shot and break the bad news: I have some difficult news for you…
What does the E represent in breaking bad news ? (3)
Be empathetic, accurate and silent (allow patient to absorb information)
What does the S represent in breaking bad news ? (2)
Strategy and Summary/ closure
What does the strategy of breaking bad news involve ? (2)
plan: I would like us to talk about where to go from here ?
Courtesy: how are you getting home ?, do you have transport to get home ? Would you like a taxi ? Contact details/secretary number: if you have questions later
What does the summary involve ?
Reassurance/concerns or questions, summarise main points,
Understand (skip), leaflets, Thank and follow up patient
What does the reassurance of the closure involve ?
Reassurance: I understand this is a difficult time for you. I can assure that myself, doctors and nurses will try our absolute best to make sure your conformable
What questions can arise from a breaking bad news and how will you deal with it ?
How long do I have ?
I can’t really you an answer on that atm, more tests will need to be performed to give us a better idea of what is going on so far ?
