5. Role-play scenes for students

5.2. Scene 2 (doctor - parent)

Have  a 10-minute conversation with a parent of a sick child. Use the techniques of active listening to get all the information you need. The parents are agitated, aggressive. Their negative disposition to you is a result of a long wait for this visit.

Next retell what they said and ask follow-up questions using appropriate organising phrases.

Be assertive, use the negotiating techniques and tactics and various negotiation styles.

To do this exercise the student should:

1) read on active listening,

2) analyse the material read and refer to the issue presented in the workshop,

3) prepare a conversation script,

4) read on assertiveness techniques,

5) rehearse the role play with the use of negotiation styles,

6) memorize questions and phrases,

7) role-play the scenario in class ,

8) as a group - evaluate the correctness of the exercise.

 

Background notes

When talking to parents about their child's illness and their concerns:

·      Listen to them calmly. Respond to their questions in a matter-of-fact manner and encourage them to ask questions.

·      Do not take offense at them (and under no circumstances offend them!).

·      When providing reliable information, use a compilation of scientific facts and real life anecdotes (examples) and

·      Inform honestly about both the real dangers and the risk of potential side effects.

·      Explain the consequences of the child’s disease.

·      Respect the autonomy of parents and their right to make decisions.

·      Help, but do not judge.

If, despite the explanations, the parents do not agree to the treatments and prescribed medications for the sick child, explain in what situations they must report this fact to the doctor and when they should visit the doctor with the child.

As a result of the course, the student is able to conduct a conversation with the patient, child / and family using the technique of active listening and expression. Practical exercises with the use of empathy; talking to the patient about his life situation.