BREAKS Protocol for Breaking Bad News
Author Information
Author(s): Narayanan Vijayakumar, Bista Bibek, Koshy Cheriyan
Primary Institution: St. Gregorios Medical Mission Hospital, Parumala, Pathanamthitta, Kerala, India
Hypothesis
The BREAKS protocol provides a systematic and easy communication strategy for breaking bad news to patients.
Conclusion
The manner in which bad news is conveyed can significantly impact both the patient and the physician.
Supporting Evidence
- Most patients appreciate facts about their health.
- Physicians often find breaking bad news to be one of the most difficult tasks.
- Good communication has a therapeutic effect on patients.
Takeaway
Breaking bad news is really hard for doctors, but using a simple plan can help them do it better and make patients feel more supported.
Methodology
The paper proposes the BREAKS protocol, which includes six steps: Background, Rapport, Explore, Announce, Kindling, and Summarize.
Potential Biases
Lack of proper training may lead to emotional disengagement of the physician from patients.
Limitations
The evidence base for current practices in breaking bad news is not sound.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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