Case Study #1 Mr. Jones: Breaking Bad News to Family You have received a hospice referral for Mr. Jones, age 54, who has ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). He and his family (wife and 3 children age

Case Study #1

Mr. Jones: Breaking Bad News to Family

You have received a hospice referral for Mr. Jones, age 54, who has ALS (amyotrophic lateral

sclerosis). He and his family (wife and 3 children ages 9, 16, 19), who are confused and

anxious, listen to you as you describe what they should expect from the hospice experience. The

family does not seem to understand why you are discussing end-of-life issues with them. You

call Mr. Jones’ family physician who tells you that the patient assured him that he talked to his

family about his prognosis. You determine that Mr. Jones has in fact not told his family. You

talk with Mr. Jones who admits that he has told his family he is very stable and expected to have

many years of life remaining. He asks you to help him break the reality of his poor prognosis to

his family.

Discussion Questions:

1. What is your role now?

2. What communication gaps do you recognize?

3. What strategies would promote continuity of care and improve team communication?

4. How might a family meeting be helpful in this case?

5. What special needs would you perceive the children having at this time? How would you

meet these needs?

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