MODULE 2: Communicating with people affected by life-limiting illness

Providing support for people affected by life-limiting illness (including patients and their families / carers) requires an understanding of the meaning of their illness and its effects on all involved. Open conversations about the illness, associated symptoms, goals of care and clinical management can provide considerable relief to people affected by life-limiting illness.[1, 2] During these conversations, health professionals must acknowledge personal concerns and sources of distress and respond to these effectively. Talking about dying and death is a necessary part of this care.[2, 3] These conversations can be difficult for everyone involved.[1] Using communication frameworks can help to reduce the stress associated with these difficult conversations and can assist with providing clear and effective communication.[1, 2]

Case Study: Michelle's Story YouTube Playlist

Overview:

Module 2: Communicating with people affected by life-limiting illness will help you develop your communication skills with people in this area.

Aims and Objectives:

After completing this module, you should be able to:

• Identify sources of psychological, social and spiritual support for people affected by life-limiting illness
• Recognise how your personal values and beliefs about dying and death affect your responses and interactions with people affected by life-limiting illness
• Identify resources that can support your communication with a person affected by a life-limiting illness
• Demonstrate the principles of effective communication when interacting with people affected by life-limiting illness
• Explore the role of self-care for healthcare professionals who are supporting people affected by life-limiting illness.