Development of training in physician-patient communication about resuscitation

Princiapl investigator: Dr Kristof Major (Geriatrics and Geriatric Rehabilitation )
Co-investigator: Dre Anca Sterie

Duration: 2019-2021
Funding: Regional foundation

Through the project "Resuscitation Options and Preferences" we have identified the main barriers to effective communication between doctors and patients on cardio-pulmonary resuscitation. In response, we are devising a communication skills training course for doctors working with older patients.

With this new project, the Chair is planning to set up a training course for assistant doctors and “médecins chef·fe·s de clinique” to facilitate discussions around care goals and resuscitation with geriatric patients as they are hospitalised.

More specifically, this training aims to:

• train doctors who will be able to implement good practices when communicating about resuscitation and care goals
• encourage and support doctors in their reflections upon the goals of such communication
• improve patients’ level of information on resuscitation, and take into account their preferences and care goals in a more systematic way

The course consists of two modules:

• Module 1 offers a distance e-learning course structured in two parts: 
•     (a) prognostic assessment and 
•     (b) ethical principles of medical decision making regarding resuscitation and goals of care
• Module 2 is a communication skills workshop 

The training is offered to assistant doctors and senior residents in the Geriatric Service of the CHUV (two pilot courses were given in December 2021).

https://eformation.chuv.ch/course/view.php?id=170

• Major K, Jox JR, Truchard Rubli E., Sterie A. “Developing guidelines on code status conversations with older adults upon hospital admission: results from a survey of healthcare professionals”. Congress of the European Union of Geriatric Medicine Society, Athènes, 11-13.10.2021