Mini course · Intermediate level
Breaking Bad News (SPIKES)
Deliver difficult news with honesty, compassion and structure, and support patients through what comes next.
What is Breaking Bad News (SPIKES)?
Breaking bad news is one of the hardest tasks in healthcare. How it is done shapes patients' understanding, trust and ability to cope. The SPIKES protocol (Setting, Perception, Invitation, Knowledge, Emotions, Strategy and Summary) offers a practical, widely taught structure. This course covers preparation, each SPIKES step, responding to emotion, cultural and family considerations, telephone conversations, and looking after yourself afterwards.
- Duration
- 1.5 hours
- Lessons
- 5
- Level
- Intermediate
- Format
- Online, self-paced
What you'll be able to do
- Prepare the setting and information before a difficult conversation
- Assess a patient's understanding and wishes for information
- Deliver bad news clearly, using plain language and warning shots
- Respond empathically to emotional reactions
- Adapt the conversation to cultural and family expectations
- Agree a plan and summary with the patient
Who this course is for
Course content
5 lessons · 1.5 hours total · free preview available
1Why It Matters
16 minFree preview· Course content
Why It Matters
The impact of how bad news is delivered.
2Preparing Well
16 min· Course content
Preparing Well
Available after you enroll.
3SPIKES Step by Step
24 min· Course content
SPIKES Step by Step
Available after you enroll.
4Responding to Emotion
18 min· Course content
Responding to Emotion
Available after you enroll.
5Culture, Family and Self-Care
16 min· Course content
Culture, Family and Self-Care
Available after you enroll.
Earn a credential employers can check
Every AIHCM credential has a unique ID that anyone can verify online in seconds.
Issued: on completion
How it works
- Finish all 5 lessons at your own pace.
- Get your digital credential with a unique ID.
- Share it — employers can verify it at aihcm.us.
Questions people ask
What about cultures where families prefer patients not to be told?
The course discusses balancing family wishes, patient rights and local law, and asking patients what they want to know.
Can bad news be given by phone?
Sometimes it is unavoidable. The course covers how to do it as safely and kindly as possible.
Is it only for doctors?
No. Nurses and other professionals are often involved in or follow up these conversations.
Does it include role-play?
It uses animated scenarios and reflective exercises. Practising with colleagues is encouraged.