Saying the “D” Word

When I see patients who I think are at risk of dying, I say to the family and patient, “You could die during this hospital admission. Is that something you’ve been thinking about?” Then you can go forward and ask, “What have you been thinking, and what are your expectations?” When you plant the seed that death may be the outcome, people have more acceptance.

Dr. Stephen Workman is calling for his brethren to man up and use more honest language with patients who are dying. Phrases like “critically ill” or “failing to respond to treatment” are on his chopping block along with other mushy non-diagnoses. Seconded? In related news: we are all going to die.