As a resident doctor, you will have face situations where you have to convey potentially distressing information, whether it is explaining a diagnosis or blood results to a patient or giving difficult news to relatives. Breaking bad news well is an essential communication skill which can strengthen the relationship between a patient and a doctor
This is a tricky area to cover as it can be challenging to us both personally and professionally when things don’t go well with a colleague, particularly when we know that this might impact patient care and/or our own mental health. The longer these negative interactions go on, the more likely they are to significantly
In all specialities of medicine patient clinical recordings, whether this is photographs or visual investigations, are imperative1. Not only are they required for diagnosis and treatment of the patient, but use also extends to teaching and research publications1. Under the data protection act (2018)2 and in accordance with patient safety, it is important that patient
Mental Capacity is the ability to make your own decisions at the time at which the decision needs to be made. The mental capacity act was designed to protect and empower people who lack the mental capacity to make their own decisions about their care and treatment. It applies to those aged 18 and over.
Although it can be scary to take on a leadership role, it is an essential role of resident doctors and a great opportunity to develop your skills. The scenarios in which resident doctors frequently lead include the ward round, MDT discussions & teaching students. Never undervalue your role in these scenarios. What it means to
Patients may live or be discharged to a wide variety of social care settings and understanding these is important for any foundation doctor. This can help you have conversations with patients and their families about the services the patient may already have in place on admission or will have on discharge. If you’re looking to
As an FY1 you will likely manage paediatric patients during their admission, often in other specialties like general surgery. Difficult communication scenarios can occur & being prepared and responding to them well can instil confidence in our patients & their parents as well as help us feel more confident in approaching them. Do look at
At times as a resident doctor, you will be faced with the management of patients displaying aggression. There are many causes for aggressive behaviour, from pain to frustration at delays in medical care, and it should be thought of as a way of expressing distress. It is therefore important to try to understand the cause
We commonly find ourselves needing to communicate with the next of kin & relatives. In this article, we cover the general aspects of this. Please note there are specific articles on dealing with complaints, breaking bad news or discussing DNAR. Do you have consent? Remember that you don’t need the patient’s consent to gather information
Everyone will receive a complaint – this is inevitable. Usually, these are informal, “I’m unhappy with the care delivered” from a relative or the patient. In this article, I’ll focus on themes contained in Good Medical Practice guidance & Duty of Candour from the GMC, advice from MDU (dealing with your first complaint & how to respond) and MPS. Make
