Training OB/GYN residents to communicate bad news to families during a pandemic

Breaking Bad News to Family Members in a Pandemic

Not applicable Interventional University of Virginia · NCT04638530

This study is trying to help OB/GYN residents learn how to communicate difficult news to families during the pandemic, even when they can't meet in person.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment16 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Virginia Academic / other
Locations1 site (Charlottesville, Virginia)
Trial IDNCT04638530 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study focuses on enhancing the communication skills of OB/GYN residents in breaking bad news to family members, particularly in a remote setting due to pandemic restrictions. It involves a combination of didactic sessions, role-playing, and discussions led by experienced faculty members. Residents will complete a pre-study questionnaire to assess their prior experiences and comfort levels with end-of-life conversations. The goal is to equip residents with the necessary skills to handle difficult conversations effectively, even when in-person interactions are not possible.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are residents enrolled in the University of Virginia's residency program in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Not a fit: Patients who are not part of the University of Virginia's residency program or those under 18 years old will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this training could significantly improve the ability of residents to communicate effectively with families during critical moments, enhancing patient care.

How similar studies have performed: While similar educational interventions have shown success in improving communication skills, this specific approach during a pandemic is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* residents in University of Virginia's residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology
* able to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* under age 18
* inability to give informed consent

Where this trial is running

Charlottesville, Virginia

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Resident Education, Patient Communication, Breaking Bad News to Patients Remotely, Telemedicine
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.