Being told that a person has a life limiting condition is a difficult process for all involved. It may be the individual with a learning disability who has this diagnosis, or a member of their family or someone they live with. Decisions about how much information an individual should know must be made individually, weighing up all the influencing factors and understanding the impact of the information. Dr Irene Tuffrey-Wijne has developed a model for breaking bad news Breaking bad news | (tuffrey-wijne.com) and there is an exert below –
All decisions should be individualised based on the factors affecting that individual and seeking the views of the people that know them well. The General Medical Council publish Guidance for doctors on End of Life care which helps make decisions - Treatment and care towards the end of life – professional standards – GMC