Prim Care Companion J Clin Psychiatry. 1999 Feb;1(1):5-8. doi: 10.4088/pcc.v01n0102.

The Angry Dying Patient.

Primary care companion to the Journal of clinical psychiatry

Robert E. Houston

PMID: 15014699 PMCID: PMC181044 DOI: 10.4088/pcc.v01n0102

Abstract

Over 25 years ago, Kubler-Ross identified anger as a predictable part of the dying process. When the dying patient becomes angry in the clinical setting, all types of communication become strained. Physicians can help the angry dying patient through this difficult time by using 10 rules of engagement. When physicians engage and empathize with these patients, they improve the patient's response to pain and they reduce patient suffering. When physicians educate patients on their normal responses to dying and enlist them in the process of family reconciliation, they can impact the end-of-life experience in a positive way.

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