Breaking news is a term that is thrown around far too often by journalists and media outlets who use it to attract clicks and attention. Generally speaking, when something breaks in the news, it’s an event that has taken place recently, is ongoing and has some level of uncertainty. It could be the results of a crime, an accident or an election.
Breaking bad news is tough for both the messenger and the recipient. It’s important for NPs to do the best job possible at delivering difficult information. This includes preparing the person for the news ahead of time, assessing what they already know about the situation and ensuring that they understand the information.
When it comes to breaking bad news about illness, it’s also important not to beat around the bush. The person needs to be informed directly and in a way that is clear. In addition, it’s important to remember that the condition can change, so there’s a chance that things could get better or worse.
Before delivering any type of bad news, NPs should consider the recipient’s circumstances, history and stake in the situation. This helps them develop a plan for how to deliver the information in a compassionate and effective way. One common approach is the SPIKES Protocol, which includes structured listening to what the person knows and wants to know, presenting the information in an understandable way, checking for understanding and confirming that the information has been understood.