In a recent evidence-based project, researchers aimed at improving conversations about serious illness with patients with advanced cancer in hospitals. The project involved training advanced practice providers (APPs) through a Zoom video and discussion groups to enhance their skills in having these conversations and documenting them in the electronic medical record. Serious illness conversation documentation frequency was measured, and pre- and post-survey differences were assessed using Wilcoxon rank sum tests.

The survey revealed that many APPs expressed the need for more training to improve their confidence and communication skills in these conversations; however, the training did help significantly improve their ability to manage emotions and be present during these discussions, suggesting increased comfort with serious illness conversations.

Reference: Clarke J, Momeyer MA, Rosselet R, Sinnott L, Overcash J. Serious Illness Conversation Training for Inpatient Medical Oncology Advanced Practice Providers: A Quality Improvement Project. J Adv Pract Oncol. 2023;14(1):37-48. doi: 10.6004/jadpro.2023.14.1.3.