Improving Postoperative Conversations With Families: What We Can Learn From Experience

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Communication
• Patient-Physician Relationship

Background:

• Postoperative conversations are vital for patient care and the physician-family relationship.
• Despite recognized importance, surgical residents receive limited formal training in these critical discussions.
• Faculty surgeons' perspectives are essential for curriculum development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore faculty surgeons' views on postoperative conversations with families.
• To identify common themes, challenges, and teaching opportunities.
• To inform the creation of a formal surgical training curriculum.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving interviews with 15 faculty surgeons at a teaching hospital.
• Thematic analysis of interview data to identify key aspects of postoperative communication.
• Focus on surgeons with over 5 years of practice.

Main Results:

• Communication components were categorized as 'what' (data sharing), 'how' (atmosphere, empathy), and 'verify' (comprehension).
• Challenges include discussing poor outcomes, unexpected findings, and ensuring clarity.
• Faculty emphasized atmosphere/rapport and practice, noting minimal personal training and barriers to resident participation.

Conclusions:

• Themes and challenges in postoperative family conversations are identified.
• This data can guide the development of a comprehensive curriculum.
• Improving trainee education in this critical aspect of patient care is feasible.