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Employing imaginative rationality: using metaphor when discussing death
Rebecca Llewellyn1, Chrystal Jaye2, Richard Egan1
1Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
Medical Humanities
|October 7, 2016
Summary
Metaphors in medicine help patients express complex feelings about life and death. Understanding these metaphors can improve patient care and communication, leading to better health outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Medical Humanities
- Qualitative Health Research
Background:
- Metaphors are prevalent in medical discourse.
- Understanding patient perspectives on longevity and death is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore how metaphors are used to express views on longevity and death.
- To investigate the role of imaginative rationality in patient understanding.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study design.
- Analysis of patient narratives and metaphorical language.
Main Results:
- Metaphors effectively convey complex emotions like bafflement, acceptance, uncertainty, and distress.
- Metaphors offer insights into patients' internal healthcare frameworks.
Conclusions:
- Skilful use of metaphors can clarify discussions about death, fostering understanding and improving patient experience.
- Clinician awareness of metaphorical nuances can enhance patient care and prevent miscommunication.
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