Breaking news is a term used by journalists to describe events that are developing and need immediate attention, such as a shooting or building fire. In addition to the traditional media, social media also plays a large role in breaking news because it allows for real-time updates and eyewitness accounts to be shared quickly, before the story has been fully confirmed by other sources.
NPs know that breaking bad news is one of the most difficult communication skills, whether it’s a terminal diagnosis, a lack of treatment options to control a disease, or a family member’s death. Despite the best of intentions, NPs can fall into traps when breaking bad news to patients and families, such as using vague language (“organizational realignment” instead of “mass layoffs,” for example) or making assumptions about what they should know already (assuming that a critical patient has died, for example).
The most effective messengers take the time to empathize with their recipients. They do their homework, consider the person’s circumstances, history and stake in the conversation, and explore their individual psychology to understand their strengths and vulnerabilities. NPs can use this information to tailor their message and delivery so that the recipient will be more receptive and less defensive. They can also shift the dynamic of the conversation from a narrow goal to a larger objective, working together toward a positive outcome. This makes the news more meaningful and less of a burden.