Knowledge and Attitudes of Clinical Teachers, Family Physicians, and Medical Interns towards Giving Bad News, a Study in Jahrom University of Medical Sciences

Pronouncing bad news is one of the most difficult duties of a physician. Lack of education in this field may negatively affect physician-patient relationship. These skills are not taught in our country vastly and effectively. The aim of this study was to assess knowledge and attitude of clinical teachers, family physicians and interns of Jahrom University of Medical Science about giving bad news. This study was conducted among a census sample of 40 clinical teachers, 22 family physicians, and 30 interns in 2009 in Jahrom University of Medical Sciences. A questionnaire was designed by the researcher, then its validity and reliability was determined. Data was analyzed by SPSS software using ANOVA and independent T test. The average scores of knowledge and attitude were 15.96 (out of 25) and 34.43 (out of 52) among faculty members, 16.72 and 35.22 among family physicians, and 15.26 and 33.43 among interns group. Knowledge level in all 3 groups was medium and their attitudes toward training in these skills were positive. No significant difference was found between knowledge and attitude of these 3 groups (respectively: p=0.095 and p=0.548). According to the result of this study and considering the fact that these skills are currently learnt through inactive methods and via try & error technique, there is a real need for developing planned courses in Iranian medical universities.