Communication

When a patient is dying it is important that they are given the opportunity to be included in conversations and to have open and honest discussions about their care.

It can be good to start by exploring what the person already understands about their condition, if there is anything they want to discuss and anyone else they want to include in conversations.

If the patient is likely to die soon then it is important to communicate this sensitively to them or to their family, if they are unable to take part in conversations. The level of detail you go into will vary from person to person. Some people like to have all information available and others will find it burdensome or confusing. Generally, people are far more likely to be distressed by lack of information than by open, honest discussions.

What to consider when talking about dying:

• Environment – quiet, private, avoiding interruptions • Who is present – does the patient want people they are close to present for support? • Know the patient’s history and information • Ensure that your communication is clear, compassionate, open and honest Language is important – it is much clearer to use the words ‘dying’ and ‘last few days of life’ than ‘poorly’ or ‘for TLC’, for example use: • ‘Plan of Care’ NOT ‘pathway’ • ‘Review medication’ NOT ‘stop treatment’ • ‘Died’ NOT ‘passed away’