You find it challenging to talk to relatives who are concerned, distressed, or angry and find that you just don’t seem to have the right words to say.

Your lack of communication at such times often makes the situation worse and you just wish that you could be more confident in these situations.

1. What sources of help could you seek to enable you to be more confident with relatives in these situations?
2. Would shadowing a more senior colleague help?
3. Are there any CPD short courses on communicating with relatives that could help?

It is rare that there is just one way to respond to a scenario or situation, so do not consider that the responses you have to the above scenario will be judged as right or wrong. Share your scenario with a work colleague or friend and ask them to tell you whether they think you have responded appropriately. Ask them to challenge your response if necessary. You do not need to submit this task for assessment unless asked to do so by your assessor.