Medical communication skills and law : the patient centred approach

Communication skills are an increasingly important part of the medical curriculum. This book aims to give didactic guidance on the appropriate style and content of communication for medical students and F1 doctors in those common situations they are likely to encounter both on the ward and in OSCE examinations. In each case any legal points or potential pitfalls are highlighted. Part of the Made Easy series, the book is small in format and extent and presents only the essentials in a way that is highly accessible for the busy medical student already overloaded with information. What to say to patients is a major cause of insecurity and worry amongst medical students and this book provides the perfect answer. Unlike all other books on communication skills the whole emphasis is on practical guidance in specific situations, rather than exploring the background to communication skills or the underlying principles.

• Practical guidance on what to say to patients in common situations in the clinic and on the wards.
• Includes legal guidance for all situations.
• Example OSCEs provided to prepare for examinations.