Communication
CPSA · Communication · Information giving
Explaining a diagnosis / results
Pitch the explanation at the patient, using chunking and checking. Elicit and address their ideas, concerns and expectations, and make a shared plan.
The framework
Prepare
- Confirm identity; find out what they already know and want to know
- Signpost — “I’d like to explain your diagnosis and what happens next.”
Explain (chunk & check)
- Give information in small chunks, plain language, avoiding jargon
- Check understanding after each chunk — “Does that make sense so far?”
- Use diagrams/analogies where helpful
Explore ICE
- Ideas — what do they think is going on?
- Concerns — what are they most worried about?
- Expectations — what were they hoping for today?
Plan & safety-net
- Agree a management plan together (shared decision-making)
- Offer written information; safety-net; check questions; arrange follow-up
Phrases that work
- “Before I explain, can I ask what you already understand about this?”
- “What matters most to you about your treatment?”
- “Let me check I’ve explained that clearly — could you tell me back what you understood?”
- “What questions do you have for me?”
Pitfalls that lose marks
- A jargon-heavy monologue with no checking.
- Ignoring the patient’s concerns (ICE).
- Not offering choice / shared decision-making.
- No safety-netting or written information.