Communication Skills with Patients and Their Families
in: Health Communication in Otorhinolaryngology, NOVA Publications , pp.25-32, 2026
- Publication Type: Book Chapter / Chapter Research Book
- Publication Date: 2026
- Publisher: NOVA Publications
- Page Numbers: pp.25-32
- Keywords: ommunication skills, patients, relatives, satisfaction, timely communication
- Anadolu University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Family members of terminally ill patients greatly appreciate effective communication about their loved one's prognosis and care. Patients often struggle to communicate in the final stages of life, so loved ones require all the information to make informed decisions. Open and timely communication can lead to positive psychosocial outcomes and increased satisfaction with end-of-life care, allowing loved ones to say goodbye. As a result, healthcare providers frequently wait for patients or their families to discuss end-of-life communication. Most palliative care professionals (83%) believe that more evidence-based recommendations for communicating with families could improve end-of-life decision-making. In an investigation, the English Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman cited the failure to identify the patient's terminal illness and inform them and their loved ones of this fact as a significant source of grievances regarding end-of-life care.