Genetic simulation for high-stakes conversations

High-stakes conversations are frequent in Medical Genetics. News shared is often perceived as "bad" and can lead to patient hostility. Breaking bad news (BBN) is therefore a challenging clinical task for physicians and is often included as a foundational skill in medical education. The methods of teaching this skill are variable, with no widely accepted standard. We propose the use of simulation as a safe and effective training tool.

Medical Genetics residents participated in a 4-week curriculum on BBN and de-escalating patient hostility and anger. The curriculum consisted of (1) a standardised patient simulation scenario requiring the disclosure of abnormal prenatal test result to a hostile patient, (2) coaching and feedback by genetic counsellors (GCs), (3) reflective exercises, and (4) workshops on de-escalation techniques. Trainees completed a postsimulation survey and postencounter reflection forms. Written comments on the survey and the reflections were analysed for themes.

Six junior and four senior residents participated in this curriculum innovation. Analysis of reflections revealed that simulation coupled with the genetic counsellor's (GC) timely feedback and reflection exercise were good education strategies for practicing BBN and de-escalation techniques in a challenging counselling situation. Most of the trainees felt that this teaching approach was successful and should be used for future training.

Simulation can help prepare Medical Genetics trainees deliver difficult news and successfully de-escalate a hostile patient encounter. Consideration should be given to counselling and de-escalation simulations as a useful addition to standing curricula for Medical Genetics trainees.