Communication Skills in the Age of COVID-19

Anthony Back, James A Tulsky, Robert M Arnold, Anthony Back, James A Tulsky, Robert M Arnold

Abstract

COVID-19 has placed enormous stress on hospitals and health care providers worldwide. Limitations in hospital capacity may result in difficult decisions in how life-sustaining technologies are allocated among patients. The authors of this essay provide guidance on how to communicate with patients who are seriously ill from COVID-19 infection.

Keywords: Behavior; COVID-19; Communication in health care; Emotions; Fear; Health care providers; Heart; Intensive care units; Quality of life; Resuscitation.

Figures

Figure.
Figure.
Talking maps for communication during the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID = coronavirus disease; CPR = cardiopulmonary resuscitation; ICU = intensive care unit.

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Source: PubMed

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