Breaking Bad News in Ultrasound: Perspectives From Radiologists and Radiology Residents From a Developing Nation

Delivering bad or unexpected news is a challenging and potentially distressing task for radiologists. In developing nations, growing health literacy will likely drive more patients to be more interested in learning the details of their diagnosis. This study aimed to provide foundational insight into Ethiopian radiologists' and radiology residents' preferences and associated factors for breaking bad news during ultrasound examinations.

We conducted a nationwide online survey study among practicing radiologists and clinical radiology residents across 6 residency programs, with a target study population of approximately 500. We used a pretested, standardized, self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive analysis was performed using SPSS 26.

The study achieved a response rate of 36.2% (181 respondents). 92 (50.8%) were radiologists and 89 (49.2%) were clinical radiology residents. Preference for breaking bad news was dependent on the severity of ultrasound findings; 105 respondents (58%) disagreed or strongly disagreed with communicating severe ultrasound findings, while only 18 (9.9%) and 23 (12.7%) would not communicate bad news if the ultrasound showed no or mild abnormalities, respectively.

The tendency to communicate bad news during ultrasound examination decreases as the severity of the diagnosis worsens. This points to a gap in handling difficult news in imaging practice. Agreement on communication roles, informed by research with patients and doctors, is needed. Structured training can strengthen trust, visibility, and patient-centered care.