RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Communicating with patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: can we do it better?
JF ERJ Open Research
JO erjor
FD European Respiratory Society
SP 00422-2021
DO 10.1183/23120541.00422-2021
VO 8
IS 1
A1 Marlies S. Wijsenbeek
A1 Francesco Bonella
A1 Leticia Orsatti
A1 Anne-Marie Russell
A1 Claudia Valenzuela
A1 Wim A. Wuyts
A1 Walter F. Baile
YR 2022
UL http://openres.ersjournals.com/content/8/1/00422-2021.abstract
AB Communications between clinicians and patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) have the potential to be challenging. The variable course and poor prognosis of IPF complicate discussions around life expectancy but should not prevent clinicians from having meaningful conversations about patients’ fears and needs, while acknowledging uncertainties. Patients want information about the course of their disease and management options, but the provision of information needs to be individualised to the needs and preferences of the patient. Communication from clinicians should be empathetic and take account of the patient's perceptions and concerns. Models, tools and protocols are available that can help clinicians to improve their interactions with patients. In this article, we consider the difficulties inherent in discussions with patients with IPF and their loved ones, and how clinicians might communicate with patients more effectively, from breaking the news about the diagnosis to providing support throughout the course of the disease.Communication from clinicians to patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis should be empathetic, and take account of the patient's perceptions and concerns. Tools are available to help clinicians improve their interactions with patients with IPF. https://bit.ly/3BWjA7h