Communication Challenges Test course

A one day intensive clinical communication workshop which is aimed at equipping staff with the confidence and skills to have better conversations in challenging circumstances. Staff from any profession & discipline may apply

This workshop is for NHS Dumfries & Galloway staff only

Overview
Participants will work in a small peer group and address communication drawn from their own clinical practice, teaching and management roles. Common challenges addressed during the programme are:

• Discussing complex or distressing information
• Shared decision making & informed consent
• Taking over care from colleagues – effective handovers
• Managing complex negotiations
• Handling anger, emotional distress, collusion or denial
• Addressing and preventing complaints: talking to patients and families involved in adverse events
• Discussing future care planning, CPR and other treatment options
• Addressing poor performance by trainees, colleagues or other members of the clinical team
• How to enhance effective teamwork

Learning Outcomes
This clinical communication workshop offers participants the opportunity to:

• Review their current practice in relation to communication in clinical practice and with colleagues and other staff.
• Identify personal learning objectives and develop strategies for addressing these within a peer learning group.
• Critique and apply relevant literature/ theory on effective communication.
• Consider and take account of patient/carer/colleague perspectives.
• Identify and practise ways of increasing communication effectiveness.
• Exchange ideas and experiences with colleagues from other specialties.