Communication Skills Training for Professionals Working with Adolescent Patients with Cancer Based on Participants'...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Medical Education
• Communication Studies

Background:

• Effective communication is crucial for healthcare professionals (HCPs) working with adolescent cancer patients and their families.
• Tailoring communication skills training (CST) to specific needs can enhance HCPs' ability to navigate challenging interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To pilot and evaluate a needs-based 2-day CST program for physicians and nurses in adolescent oncology.
• To assess the impact of CST on HCPs' self-assessed confidence in communication skills with adolescent patients and parents.

Main Methods:

• A 2-day CST program was developed and delivered to physicians and nurses, with content driven by participant-reported critical incidents.
• Training utilized role-playing with simulated patients and parents, supplemented by short lectures on communication techniques.
• Self-assessment questionnaires were administered before, immediately after, and 6 months post-training to evaluate changes in communication confidence.

Main Results:

• Twenty-six physicians and 24 nurses participated across 6 training sessions.
• A significant increase in self-confidence was observed in 6 out of 19 predefined communication areas (p < 0.05).
• Qualitative analysis revealed themes of practical orientation and intensity immediately post-training, and increased self-confidence and skill application at 6 months.

Conclusions:

• Needs-based CST for HCPs in adolescent oncology shows promising results in enhancing communication skills and confidence.
• Sustained impact requires addressing the noted diminishing effect over time and considering booster training sessions.
• The study suggests wider implementation of tailored CST programs in similar settings.