As a result of participating in this learning activity the learner will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of culturally sensitive communication techniques to effectively guide and support patients and families facing a terminal illness as evidenced by passing the final exam with a score of 80% or higher at the end of the on-line learning activity.

This is a self-paced course with optional knowledge check quizzes after each lesson. These non-graded quizzes allow you to check your understanding of the lesson objectives before proceeding to the next lesson. After the final lesson you will be required to take the final exam. You must score 80% or higher to pass the course and obtain a certificate of completion.

• Describe the role of the physician in communicating news of a terminal illness
• Identify guidelines for establishing the framework for difficult discussions
• Define the components necessary in the exchange of normal communication
• State the importance of non-verbal communication
• Identify the sensory losses that impair communication.
• Explain how cultural and language barriers influence effective communication.
• Identify actions to improve communication between the professional, the patient and the family.
• Describe the emotional symptoms that may create barriers to effective and accurate communication.
• Outline the challenges and benefits in prognostication of an illness.
• Outline the steps in providing an environment conducive to effective communication.
• List three examples of ways to show the patient you are engaged in the conversation.
• Provide three examples of open-ended questions to use in an initial conversation regarding a patient's diagnosis.
• Compare and contrast the communication of false hope with reframed hope.
• Provide three examples of reframed hope that may be identified by the patient
• Describe the importance of understanding culture and diversity in the care of the terminally ill patient.
• Define and contrast cultural diversity, cultural sensitivity, and cultural competence.
• Describe two tools the healthcare professional can access for improved cultural competence.
• List two examples of potential cultural conflict when contemplating communication about death and dying.
• Describe the value of communicating advance directive wishes with the patient, family, and health care providers.
• Identify actions that you can take to improve communication between the patient and family regarding advance directives.
• Compare and contrast the benefits and burdens of CPR in the terminally ill patient.
• Define the benefits and burdens of hydration/dehydration.
• List others areas where difficult decisions will need to be addressed.
• List ways in which the health care professional can assist the patient in creating lasting memories for surviving family members
• Define the role of the health care professional in discussions of pre-planning funerals and memorial services
• Define the role of the family in discussions of pre-planning funerals and memorial services
• List two ways to include children in the preparation for death.
• List three supportive resources found in your community.
• Compare and contrast the support needs of family members and healthcare professionals.
• Outline structured support opportunities and care.

2.5 Contact Hour: based on 60 minute contact hour

The estimated time for completion for this activity is 2.5 hour(s).

Health care professionals and volunteers to: include Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Social Workers, Physicians, Chaplains/Counselors, Home Healthaides, Certified Nursing Assistants, Homemakers, Volunteers, Therapists, and others interested in hospice services and information.

Kathy Richie, BSN, RN, Lores Vlaminck, RN, BSN, MA, Technical Nurse Consultant, Lores Consulting

As required by ANCC, this continuing nursing education activity must carry an expiration date. You must complete the content, Final Quiz and Course Survey on or before that day. The last day to successfully complete this course and receive a Certificate of Completion will be December 31, 2025.

Materials used in connection with this course may be subject to copyright protection. Retention of the materials for longer than the class term, unauthorized further dissemination of the materials, or use of copyrighted materials in any way other than intended for this class is prohibited by Copyright and Teach Act laws.

This course was developed with Rochester Community and Technical College's Continuing Education and Workforce Development Division located in Rochester Minnesota. Development was funded from the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System.