Breaking Bad News - The factors which influence the process of breaking bad news within a New Zealand Hospital Setting.

Abstract

This research project investigates the factors that influence the communication of bad news within a hospital setting in New Zealand. Essentially, it is a power discussion that draws on the work of Opie (2000) and Foucault (1980, 1989), and considers the relationship between individuals at each end of the stethoscope - the patient and the doctor (Ubel, 2012, cited in Duke University, 2013). This project will explore the organisational systems and structures at Tauranga Hospital in New Zealand that influence the practice of breaking of bad news to patients and their families. Factors that are investigated include: who is responsible for breaking bad news; the role of the multi-disciplinary team; breaking bad news models; training for medical and non-medical professionals; emotional intelligence; and the psychological impact of breaking bad news for patients and doctors. In addition, organisational barriers that influence the breaking of bad news will be discussed, such as time starvation and privacy, and consideration given to the reasons why doctors avoid communicating serious diagnosis. The relevance of the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumer Rights will also be explored (Health and Disability Commissioner, 2009).

Keywords: breaking bad news, hospital organisational structures, medical training, power, multi-disciplinary teams, emotional intelligence.