Waar liggen uw grenzen? Het bespreken van de grenzen van behandeling

Abstract

Patients’ early consideration of treatment preferences and boundaries informs physicians in emergencies. Shared decision-making is essential, but faces challenges. From a dataset of 150 video-recorded consultations at the UMCU internal medicine clinic, we analyzed 21 consultations in which treatment preferences and boundaries were explicitly introduced. Using conversation analysis, we examined when and how these preferences were discussed. Sensitive and neutral communication, asking direct questions, and inviting patient participation are vital for successful shared decision-making. Addressing treatment preferences and boundaries and allowing time for response improves end-of-life considerations and healthcare practice.