How would you deal with this?

[mydream]

Hey,

 

I'd like to have your approach to a situation.

 

Here is the scenario:

 

You just informed a patient that a recent test showed a cancerous lump in one of her breasts. The patient breaks down in tears. How would you react? Be empathetic.

[Larrivee]

Give her time to consider what you've just told her, and make sure she understands correctly. Then follow with treatment plan so she can feel like there is hope, security, a plan of attack. She is scared and confused and you need to make sure she knows that she is not alone in this and that there is hope. Discuss with her the options available to her for treatment and discuss which would give her the most optimal outcome. Ask her if she would like to involved her family in this discussion. Schedule the next meeting so she leaves knowing that she will be looked after.

 

And in all of this talk in a manner which has hints of empathy/sympathy, but not so much that she gets the feeling things are hopeless. Deliver the news softly, and speak of the treatment with an optimistic tone.

 

There's probably tons that I am missing, but that's just what first came to mind.

[DubZteR]

Hey,

 

I'd like to have your approach to a situation.

 

Here is the scenario:

 

You just informed a patient that a recent test showed a cancerous lump in one of her breasts. The patient breaks down in tears. How would you react? Be empathetic.

 

start by offering her some tissue ....

[bj89]

Try to comfort her at first, then it's important to lead her in the right direction. She will obviously be confused, won't know what to do. Make sure you explain everything in layman's terms and give her treatment options. Definitely be empathetic to help her soak in the reality. Never play down the situation if it is really bad while being realistic. Offer her support if she needs it.