Improving communication of diagnostic uncertainty to families of hospitalized children. June 5, 2024

https://psnet.ahrq.gov/issue/improving-communication-diagnostic-uncertainty-families-hospitalized-children Improving communication of diagnostic uncertainty to families of hospitalized children. Young EE, Kane J, Timmons K, et al. Diagnosis (Berl). 2024;11(2):186-191. Diagnostic uncertainty can be difficult to communicate without harming patient trust. This qualitative study examined deterrents to effective sharing of clinician uncertainty with caregivers of children whose diagnosis has yet to be determined. Challenges to these conversations include lack of time, language discordance, and lack of clarity around the uncertainty concept. The diagnostic pause and visual patient education tools were suggested as strategies for improvement.