Cancer: A Failure to Communicate
After several days in the hospital, the results of the various scans are in; and the attending physician, sits down with Mr. Tabrizi to discuss his situation. His son and wife are also present. The Dr. first offers a handshake to Mr. Tabrizi’s son. He inquires explicitly about the extent of his English skills and asks if the son would be willing to translate what he is about to say to Mr. Tabrizi. He agrees, while Mr. Tabrizi and his wife sit by. The doctor then gazes directly into Mr. Tabrizi’s eyes and tells him that he has extensive small cell lung cancer. In spite of his hesitations, the son attempts to translate the bare outlines of this information (leaving out the term “chemotherapy”), at which point Mr. Tabrizi declares flat-out that he doesn’t want any cumbersome treatments; they would compromise his relationships with his family and friends and place too heavy a burden on his wife. Further, he doesn’t really know what might be in such a strong medication that could help him get better. Instead, he will simply do the two things the doctor had recommended, improve his diet and get more rest.
- What could/should the doctor/hospital have done differently in order to handle this case in a more helpful and culturally competent manner?
- How do you know if the patient is making Informed Decisions and what those decisions require?
- Would you be willing to respect this patient’s treatment decision? Why? Why not?
Apply Theory (Specific Professional Healthcare Competencies + Clinical Medical Ethical Principles) to Practice in order to provide Optimal Patient-Centered Care (OPCC)
Source – Santa Clara University, Markkula Center for Applied Ethics
