Course Details

• This course takes an in-depth look at equipping dental professionals with essential strategies to effectively handle difficult news in Dentistry.
• You will be presented with a short presentation followed by an assessment.
• If you achieve 80% or more, you pass the course and will receive a printable certificate to place in your CPD folder. If you do not pass, you will have the opportunity to review the content and retake the assessment when you feel confident.

Aims

This course aims to provide learners with knowledge and understanding of effective strategies for delivering bad news in Dentistry with compassion and clarity. By emphasising clear communication and patient-centred approaches, dental professionals will gain confidence in handling challenging conversations sensitively.

Objectives

During this course learners will be able to:

• Define what constitutes "bad news" in dental care and recognise its potential emotional impact on patients.
• Develop clear and simple language techniques to convey complex information to patients without overwhelming them.
• Learn strategies for mental preparation to handle difficult conversations sensitively and effectively.
• Identify appropriate settings for delivering bad news, ensuring privacy, and minimising distractions.
• Use clear language and provide context when initiating discussions about bad news in dental care.

Learning Outcomes

After completing this course the learner will gain an understanding of:

• Understand the emotional impact of receiving bad news in dental care on patients.
• Develop clear and concise communication techniques to convey complex information to patients in a sensitive and empathetic manner.
• Learn strategies for mental preparation before delivering bad news, including managing personal emotions and anticipating patient reactions.
• Demonstrate professionalism and empathy in all interactions with patients, fostering trust and confidence in the dental care provider.
• Encourage patients to express their thoughts and feelings openly, while demonstrating empathy and understanding.

Topics covered