Delivering Bad News: STIs in Adolescents
Simulated ClientIn this simulation activity, learners will engage in a scenario where they must use therapeutic communication techniques to deliver sensitive medical news. They will inform Janice Walker, who has just received a positive diagnosis for herpes simplex, of her condition, while also offering appropriate guidance on treatment, transmission, and the overall implications of the disease. As part of this exercise, learners will be tasked with carefully recognizing Janice’s non-verbal cues and emotional responses to the diagnosis. By observing her body language and facial expressions, learners can tailor their communication to address Janice’s unspoken concerns, ensuring that they convey empathy and a sense of caring throughout the conversation. Learners will also focus on educating Janice about herpes, including how it is transmitted, the prescribed treatment—Valacyclovir (1g orally, twice a day for 10 days)—and what the diagnosis means for her long-term health. Throughout the simulation, learners must maintain a supportive tone, ensuring that Janice feels understood, informed, and empowered to manage her condition moving forward.