Internist how-to

How to Lead a Goals-of-Care Conversation

These talks guide care that patients want.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

These talks guide care that patients want. In short: prepare; ask; share, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Prepare with the team.

  2. Ask what the patient understands.

  3. Share information clearly.

  4. Ask about values and goals.

  5. Recommend a plan.

  6. Document code status.

Safety reminders for internists

  • Reconcile medications
  • Follow infection control
  • Use structured handoffs
  • Prevent falls and blood clots in hospital

Hospitalist · Internal medicine · Differential diagnosis · Comorbidity · Polypharmacy · Rounds: see the full internist glossary.

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