Focus Topics

t 2_section1_old | Activity 5: Communicating with Tom’s family

Sarah and Nancy return to the bedside. Tom is now very unwell and is extremely breathless. The family are pleased to see Nancy. Sarah is concerned about Tom’s symptoms.

  1. What strategies are demonstrated by Nancy at the beginning of the scene to facilitate effective communication with Tom?
  2. What recommendations would you make to improve communication by Nancy and Sarah?
  3. What are the key needs and concerns likely to be for Tom and his family as they face Tom’s imminent death in the hospital? Provide evidence for your answer.
  4. Jimmy states that “Dad knows he’s not going to make it back to country to die.” Based on this scene, what are some of the reasons that Tom may want to return to country to die?