Breaking bad news: self-perception of medical students

Abstract This study analyzed medical students’ self-perception regarding their aptitude to communicate bad news and identify associated factors. Using a self-administered questionnaire, 44.1% of 214 participants considered themselves suitable for the approach. The following were associated with greater self-perception of aptitude for breaking bad news: more time in the course ( p <0.001); believing that the undergraduate course offered the necessary resources to acquire the skill to communicate bad news ( p <0.001); knowing a validated protocol ( p =0.015); having needed to communicate bad news during the undergraduate course ( p <0.001). In conclusion, most students felt unable to communicate bad news. Knowing a protocol and having the need to communicate bad news during the undergraduate course were essential for aptitude. As a suggestion, the topic should be approached differently, with more practical activities.

摘要 本研究分析了医学生对自身沟通坏消息能力的自我认知，并探究了相关影响因素。研究采用自填式问卷开展调研，在214名受访者中，有44.1%的学生认为自己能够胜任坏消息沟通工作。以下因素与更高的坏消息沟通能力自我认知显著相关：修读课程时长更长（p<0.001）、认为本科阶段课程提供了掌握坏消息沟通技能所需的必要资源（p<0.001）、了解经过验证的沟通规程（p=0.015）、在本科学习期间曾需要开展坏消息沟通（p<0.001）。研究结论显示，多数学生认为自身尚不具备坏消息沟通能力。掌握沟通规程以及在本科阶段拥有坏消息沟通实践经历，是具备该能力的核心要素。据此建议，相关教学应优化授课模式，增设更多实操性活动。