Communication Skills Training for Rehabilitation Teams
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to enhance the communication skills of rehabilitation professionals working with children facing serious illnesses, such as cancer. The goal is to help these professionals feel more comfortable and confident during difficult conversations with patients and their families. Bereaved parent educators, experienced in similar settings, will facilitate the training, known as the Seminar in Unwavering Empowering Presence. Licensed rehabilitation workers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, including physical therapists and speech-language pathologists involved in pediatric oncology care, may find this trial suitable. As an unphased trial, the study focuses on enhancing professional skills, offering participants a unique opportunity to contribute to improved patient care.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that this communication skills training is safe for rehabilitation professionals?
Research has shown that communication skills training (CST) is generally safe for healthcare professionals. CST helps them communicate better with patients and families. No known risks or negative effects arise from participating in this training. It typically involves learning through workshops and practice sessions, which help professionals handle difficult conversations, such as delivering bad news or discussing treatment options. The aim is to make these talks more supportive and clear for patients and their families. As CST focuses on skill improvement, it is considered very low-risk for participants.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Communication Skills Training (CST) for rehabilitation teams because it focuses on enhancing the communication skills of healthcare professionals and educators in a unique way. Unlike traditional methods that might simply offer general communication advice, this training emphasizes the concept of "Unwavering Empowering Presence." This approach aims to foster stronger connections between rehabilitation professionals and pediatric oncology patients, potentially improving patient outcomes and experiences. Additionally, involving bereaved parent educators as facilitators brings a compassionate and informed perspective to the training, which is not a typical feature of existing communication skill programs.
What evidence suggests that this communication skills training is effective for rehabilitation professionals?
Research has shown that training in communication skills greatly aids healthcare workers in managing tough conversations. For example, one study found that nurses who received this training improved in delivering bad news, indicating more effective communication. In this trial, licensed rehabilitation professionals and St. Jude Bereaved Parent Educators will participate in a Communication Skills Training (CST) intervention. These programs help individuals express themselves clearly and understand others better, which is crucial for those working with seriously ill children and their families. Overall, communication skills training can boost confidence and ease in these challenging situations.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Brittany Cowfer, MD
Principal Investigator
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for rehabilitation professionals who work with children suffering from serious illnesses and their families. It aims to improve their skills in handling difficult conversations. There's no specific exclusion criteria provided, so it appears open to all rehab professionals interested in enhancing communication.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Communication Skills Training (CST) Intervention
Rehabilitation professionals participate in a 3-hour CST program involving didactic instruction, experiential learning, and role-play with bereaved parent educators.
Follow-up
Participants complete post-intervention self-assessment surveys and interviews to assess retention and perspectives.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Seminar in Unwavering Empowering Presence
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Lead Sponsor