This book examines the fine art of communication &&&8212; the pivotal aspect of being a palliative care expert that is so difficult to quantify and teach. It presents the unemotional, clear and accurate advice necessary for communicating with patients in a palliative care setting.

'There is a wide breadth of subject matter, including refreshingly clear guidance on communication challenges around resuscitation, nutrition, the possibility of fatal haemorrhage and end-of-life planning. In addition, the author offers guidance on ethical principles, futility, cancer clinical trials and managing interprofessional conflict. Key themes emerge, notably the importance of applying simple principles in the face of complexity and of professionalism. The emotional aspects of communication are sensitively covered.' Claire Bates, Consultant in Palliative Medicine, Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust, UK 'There are a few books now available, offering to teach you the fundamentals of communication in palliative care, but this one stands out. Straight forward, there are no pages of theory here. Eminently practical, born of years of use, yet kind and caring. Personal experience and clinical anecdotes from many years of palliative care illuminate her teaching. If you are new to the field, or you are looking for a primer in palliative care communication, you could do much worse than to learn from Janet Dunphy.' Roger Woodruff, International Association for Hospice & Palliative Care News; November 2012

"There are a number of books available offering to teach you the fundamentals of communication in palliative care, but this one stands out...Eminently practical, born of years of experience, yet kind and caring. I would be happy to recommend this book to someone looking for a primer in palliative care communication..." Roger Woodruff, www.hospicecare.com, May 2018

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction: A note from the author 2. Relationships 3. Being a professional 4. Assessment skills 5. Diagnosis 6. Treatment 7. The impact of serious illness 8. Confirmation of a poor prognosis 9. Key ethical issues in communication 10. The specifics of advance care planning 11. Breaking bad news within palliative care 12. The dying phase 13. Frequently asked questions 14. Looking after you 15. Conclusion