The SPIKES protocol is a method used in clinical medicine to break bad news to patients and families.
[8] By using the SPIKES method for introducing and communicating information to patients and their families, it can aid in the presentation of the material.
According to research related to the SPIKES method, important factors to consider when using this protocol involve empathy, acknowledgement and validation of feelings, providing information about intervention and treatment, and ensuring that the patient understands the news being delivered.
[9][10] The name SPIKES is an acronym, where the letters stand for:[9][1][8] → This entails never to give bad news by use of phone or in a hallway.
One may consider to sit in a private space or room with no distractions so to be sure the message being delivered is the one focused on; no use of televisions or cellphones.
The way it is worded shows respect for the patient's feelings and reflects on their readiness to receive news.