[Caregivers' role in breaking bad news: patients, doctors, and nurses' points of view]

Abstract

The aim of the research was to identify the behavioral patterns employed by caregivers when breaking bad news, and their affect on the patient. These issues were examined from three points of view: patients, doctors, and nurses. A total of 152 interviewees participated in the research: 51 patients, 51 nurses, and 50 doctors. They completed a constructed questionnaire that included 35 items developed for the research. Support patterns identified as effective were: allowing for the expression of emotions, empathic silence, support through touch, and the use of participatory, commendation, and encouragement statements. The research findings point to the crucial need for the involvement of a family-member and a nurse in the process, and providing written information for the receiver of the news. Significant differences (p < 0.05) between patients and caregivers were found in the type of information given, the timing and quantity, as well as in the support and communication patterns. The principal emotions caregivers experienced were identification and helplessness, and most of them were not trained in this field. The research findings could bridge the gap between what patients want and what caregivers actually do, and would be beneficial in designing guidelines for breaking bad news, as well as formulating a workshop program for furthering the team skills.