Really appreciated the exercise in shared decision making. Although a little confused and self-conscious, Hussein did a great job of putting the steps into perspective for me. Whenever patients are given a new diagnosis or prognosis, there is a loss of power. Patients are confused, overwhelmed, upset, etc… By making sure caregivers acknowledge a patient has a choice, work with them to consider the options, and allow them to be the decision maker, then they are able to give patients back some of the power they lost. The first stage of choice talk is critical and easily skipped over to go straight to options. I honestly feel like I can use this same principle of choice, options, and decision in other areas of life including my kids and students. I will continue to be cognizant of the steps and continue to practice them until I become more experienced and comfortable.
