Courageous Conversations Project

Background

We know that some wonderful conversations happen between staff and patients in health and care settings. But there can be the tendency, because of lack of time or resources or confidence, to avoid or sidestep some tricky conversations. We also know that it is those conversations that can be the most meaningful and impactful, not only for patients but also for staff. These conversations can have a big impact not only on patient experience, but on health outcomes. To support healthcare professionals to have these conversations, the Point of Care Foundation is proud to introduce the Courageous Conversations Project. 

Courageous Conversations Card Deck

Based on the idea of coaching or conversation cards we are creating a card deck of phrases, questions, topics and themes. The cards will be used in a one day training package and then participants will be able to take the card deck away to support sustainable changes to practice and culture.

Example of a courageous conversation: 

“I asked about blood clots, I was really worried that my legs were swollen because of blood clots. But when I asked they just brushed it off, ‘oh it’s fine’. I lay awake all night worrying that I was going to die of a blood clot so I kept really still. The next day my OT came over and asked how I was, but she really asked how I was, not just in passing. So I told her my worries. She said she didn’t know why my legs were swollen but she thought it was fine but she’d check. She spoke with the doctor and they checked my scans and blood. She didn’t have the answer but she really listened to me instead of brushing it off. So often they brush it off, and from their perspective it is fine, they know it’s fine. But I didn’t.”         

Evi, Major Trauma Survivor

If you have any questions please email us on info@pointofcarefoundation.org.uk