How to Best Support Families’ Needs When Difficult News is Delivered
Often, surgeons and other physicians are required to deliver difficult, unexpected news to patients’ families during or just following a patient’s surgery. When physicians find themselves in this situation, they are reminded of the resources available to help the family cope with the situation at hand or next steps. Prior to delivering difficult news, physicians may notify the Family Liaison or a member of the Patient/Family Relations Department to arrange for a staff member from Social Work, Chaplaincy, or Patient/Family Relations to be present during or shortly after the unexpected news is shared with the patient’s family. Keep in mind that there are several private rooms in the Bretholtz Center in which to have such sensitive conversations with families.
Helpful Contact Numbers:
• Family Liaison
(available Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-9 p.m.) – ext. 2-7440
Patient/Family Relations
(available Mon.-Fri., 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sat., 11 a.m.-2 p.m.) – ext. 2-6636
Nurse Administrator
(available after hours) – beeper #1876
Social Work
(available Mon-Fri, 8:30-5 p.m.) – ext. 2-6462. After-hours, contact the page operator to page the on-site or on-call social worker.
Chaplaincy
(available 24 hours), beeper # 11724