Multiple Goals Theory and Communication Quality Analysis for Fellows Communication Training

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Communication Science
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• End-of-life communication in critical care is crucial but often deficient.
• Existing training is difficult to scale and not tailored for advanced clinicians.
• Deficiencies impact patient and family experiences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To pilot a reflective communication curriculum for advanced trainees.
• To explore the use of Multiple Goals Theory (MGT), Communication Quality Analysis (CQA), and communication logs.
• To assess educational and practical implications of this novel approach.

Main Methods:

• A 2-year longitudinal curriculum for pulmonary and critical care fellows.
• Incorporated MGT framework, CQA of recorded ICU family meetings, and written communication logs.
• Qualitative evaluation through interviews and analysis of communication logs.

Main Results:

• Fellows found the curriculum useful, integrating skills into practice.
• Multiple Goals Theory helped de-emphasize task-focused goals.
• Communication Quality Analysis facilitated self-reflection, though logs were burdensome.
• Fellows' written logs lacked substantial reflection.

Conclusions:

• MGT provides a feasible framework for enhancing communication skills in advanced trainees.
• CQA effectively promotes self-reflection on clinical practice.
• Communication logs were not effective training tools; CQA workshops supported narrative reflection.
• Further implementation and outcome measurement are warranted.