Protocol for the Communication of Bad News in Prehospital Emergencies

Abstract

The communication of bad news, particularly in situations of an unexpected death, is one of the most difficult tasks for health professionals. It is important to be aware of the words used and the way the loss is conveyed, as these can mark the family forever, influencing grief management. The communication of death should therefore not be an improvised act, but rather, the health professional should have knowledge about the most adequate communication approach for each situation. In the chaotic and often violent prehospital environment, no protocols with the aim of guiding professionals to carry out this communication were discovered.

Keywords

• communication
• delivery of bad news
• family
• unexpected death