Breaking bad news

About the podcast

Breaking bad news is sadly an inevitable part of dealing with trauma patients and something that will never become easy no matter how long we work. Dr Annette Rickard gives us some pearls on how to do the best we can in this difficult situation.

As always, level 1 and 2 learning areas listed in the show notes.

Breaking bad news – ThePTN podcast

A sad necessity of working in trauma is the fairly frequent need to inform patients or their loved ones about the injuries they have sustained and often, that they are unlikely to survive. Dr Annette Rickard offers her experience in how to approach these situations.

Learning areas in this podcast:

Dealing with the care of the death of a trauma patient:

• Can demonstrate the ability to care sensitively for a deceased trauma patient, taking note of any specific instructions from the Coroner’s Officer/procurator fiscal
• Can recognise own emotional needs following exposure to a trauma death and identify appropriate support mechanisms
• Participates in supporting the care of the bereaved relatives, carers and friends