The implementation and evaluation of a communication skills training program for oncology nurses

• DOI: 10.1007/s13142-017-0473-5
• Publication Date: 2017-02-16T15:28:45Z
• Authors: Smita C. Banerjee; Ruth Manna; Nessa Coyle; Stacey Penn; Tess E. Gallegos; Talia Zaider; Carol A. Krueger; Philip A. Bialer; Carma L. Bylund; Patricia A. Parker
• Keywords: Communication skills training

Many nurses express difficulty in communicating with their patients, especially oncology settings where there are numerous challenges and high-stake decisions during the course of diagnosis treatment. Providing specific training communication skills is one way to enhance between patients. We developed implemented a program for nurses, consisting three teaching modules: responding empathically patients; discussing death, dying, end-of-life goals care; challenging interactions families. Training included didactic experiential small group role plays. This paper presents results on evaluation, self-efficacy, behavioral demonstration learned skills. Three hundred forty-two inpatient participated 1-day completed evaluations, self-reports, pre- post-standardized patient assessments. Participants rated favorably, they reported significant gains self-efficacy ability communicate patients various contexts. also demonstrated improvement several empathic skills, as well clarifying skill. Our work demonstrates that implementation nurse at major cancer center feasible acceptable has impact participants' uptake