Medical students' ability to communicate bad news: a literature review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11606/issn.1679-9836.v105i1e-224177Keywords:
Physician-patient relationship, Truth disclosure, Medical educationAbstract
Objective: To analyze the skills of Brazilian and foreign medical students in communicating bad news. Methodology: The methodology employed in this study was an integrative review. Searches were conducted in the PubMed and Web of Science databases using the following descriptors: "breaking bad news" AND ("medical student*" OR "student*" OR "medical graduate*") AND "patient*" to encompass texts from different cultures and nationalities. The inclusion criteria were articles published between 2003 and 2023, with full text available. Results: The analysis of the 17 studies revealed that delivering bad news remains a challenge in medical education, with simulations and specific training being the most effective strategies to develop this competency among students. Conclusion: Medical education faces different challenges and approaches worldwide, with a shared concern for developing strong communication skills in students. Furthermore, it was concluded that students' experience and interaction with patients through simulations are highly valuable for their training, enhancing their preparedness
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