Talking with families and children about the death of a parent
- DOI:
- 10.1093/med/9780199656097.003.0062
Patient and provider outcomes are significantly related to the effectiveness of interprofessional communication Good interprofessional communication includes adopting an attitude of curiosity, recognizing that communication happens at several levels simultaneously, and acknowledging the importance of skilful conflict management. Barriers to good communication among interdisciplinary team members include team organization, provider hierarchy, and professional identity. Optimal communication among palliative consultants and other clinicians requires expert consultation etiquette, and overcoming particular challenges faced by palliative care consultants including the high emotion often accompanying palliative care consultations and the often contrasting assessment of the patient’s needs by the consulting and referring clinicians. The chapter describes how to use structured communication tools, designated forums for discussion, flattened hierarchy, and an open, no-fault culture, along with five core principles for good communication in palliative care consultation: curiosity, humility, transparency, clarity, and judiciousness. Palliative care plays a key role in optimizing interprofessional communication.
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