Reference no: EM133384102

Question: Challenging and Difficult Conversations with Patients and their Support People

Reflect on your own experiences with challenging conversations.

Think of a time you had a challenging or difficult conversation with a patient or their support person. Perhaps you had to discuss a difficult diagnosis. Perhaps you needed to confront someone who was not following hospital rules, or who was not adhering to medical advice (and was being confrontational about it). Perhaps this person was openly abusive to you or another member of your team.

First, think of a time when this conversation went well. Describe the scenario and what you did and said that led to the good outcome.
Now, think of a time when you had a difficult or challenging conversation and it did not go well. Using what you have learned from the readings, what might you have done differently? describe a script for yourself - because practicing the actual words we might say in a given situation is the only way we will learn to say these words when the time arises.

It is important to realize that even if we say or do the right things, and respond with compassion and caring, not all difficult or challenging conversations will have what we think of as a good outcome. Nor will all conflicts be resolved. What might you say to a patient or their family if resolution does not happen? What other resources might you tap into to help resolve the issue?