Delivering unexpected news to pregnant women and their attending family: Is sonographer training adequate? A narrative review

Abstract

Delivering unexpected news is a common task many sonographers face within the clinical setting. Research has shown sonographers do not feel equipped to break unexpected news to pregnant women and their families. The aim of this study was to review current national and international literature to determine whether sonographers receive sufficient training to deliver unexpected news in the obstetric setting and the types of training individuals had received. Keywords were searched using PubMed, Google Scholar and Central Queensland University library. A total of 22 articles were selected for discussion and four main themes were identified during thematic analysis: (1) sonographers felt underprepared to deliver unexpected news, (2) sonographers felt training was or would be beneficial in delivering unexpected news, (3) a standard training protocol and guidelines should be implemented and (4) training and preparation to deliver unexpected news can improve patient care and satisfaction. Improved communication and patient care could be achieved with the implementation of standard guidelines and training, within universities or via professional associations to ensure sonographers are prepared to deliver unexpected news.