Document Type
Journal Article
Publication Date
3-11-2018
Journal
Children (Basel)
Volume
5
Issue
3
DOI
10.3390/children5030040
Abstract
Effective communication is essential to the practice of pediatric oncology. Clear and empathic delivery of diagnostic and prognostic information positively impacts the ways in which patients and families cope. Honest, compassionate discussions regarding goals of care and hopes for patients approaching end of life can provide healing when other therapies have failed. Effective communication and the positive relationships it fosters also can provide comfort to families grieving the loss of a child. A robust body of evidence demonstrates the benefits of optimal communication for patients, families, and healthcare providers. This review aims to identify key communication skills that healthcare providers can employ throughout the illness journey to provide information, encourage shared decision-making, promote therapeutic alliance, and empathically address end-of-life concerns. By reviewing the relevant evidence and providing practical tips for skill development, we strive to help healthcare providers understand the value of effective communication and master these critical skills.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 License.
APA Citation
Blazin, L., Cecchini, C., Habashy, C., Kaye, E., & Baker, J. (2018). Communicating Effectively in Pediatric Cancer Care: Translating Evidence into Practice.. Children (Basel), 5 (3). http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/children5030040
Peer Reviewed
1
Open Access
1
Comments
Reproduced with permission of MDPI AG. Children (Basel)