Sometimes it is a family member or a friend who has to inform the patient about a terminal diagnosis. If you are given this responsibility here are some guidelines:

Talk face-to-face in a private quiet place.

Get an idea of how much your loved one wants to know.

Be honest and caring

Say it clearly and directly so there is no misunderstanding.

Listen to the response and be patient.

Affirm whatever feelings are expressed.

Written by  Linda Miller, RN, MA
Edited by Rachael Myers Lowe, cancerpage.com

This page was last edited on 04/18/2008