Designing and maturing the OKRA-Compass for breaking bad news in the German pediatric oncology setting: A participatory action research study

Research output: Contribution to journal › Research article › Contributed › peer-review

Contributors

  • Kerstin Dittmer - , University of Cologne (Author)
  • Frank Vitinius - , University of Cologne, Robert Bosch Krankenhaus Stuttgart (Author)
  • Isabel Hamm - , University of Cologne (Author)
  • Tobias Däbritz - , Department of Paediatrics (Author)
  • Stefanie Hänse - , Department of Paediatrics (Author)
  • Marc Hoemberg - , University of Cologne (Author)
  • Anne Lorenz - , Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden (Author)
  • Rainer Misgeld - , Gemeinschaftsklinikum Mittelrhein (Author)
  • Norbert W. Paul - , University Medical Center Mainz (Author)
  • Walther Stamm - , Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (Author)
  • Theresia Krieger - , University of Cologne (Author)

Abstract

Objective: Breaking Bad News (BBN) is challenging in pediatric oncology. It requires tailored, sensitive communication to families and children at critical moments. However, pediatric oncology lacks context-specific BBN support tools. The OKRA project aims to address this gap by developing and refining a support tool with a participatory approach. Methods: The OKRA-Compass was developed using a participatory action research (PAR) approach with mixed methods. It involved iterative refinement across five pediatric oncology clinics. Improvements were based on feedback from focus groups, surveys, and written suggestions. The interdisciplinary research team collaborated with healthcare professionals (HCPs) as coresearchers to ensure practical applicability, acceptance, and user-centered design. Results: The OKRA-Compass provides a structured but flexible framework for BBN in pediatric oncology, comprising a comprehensive guidebook, pocket guide, and checklists. Its application improved team preparation, communication style, and role clarity during emotionally demanding encounters. Conclusion: The structured framework of the OKRA-Compass aligns theoretical foundations with clinical practice. Its participatory development process fostered collaboration and ownership among HCPs, making it a valuable resource for improving communication in pediatric oncology. Practice implications: Integrating the OKRA-Compass into training programs and clinical routines may promote empathic, patient-centered care. We recommend interprofessional training to further support its application and dissemination.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Article number108694
JournalPatient Education and Counseling
Volume134
Publication statusPublished - May 2025
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

PubMed 39923357

Keywords

ASJC Scopus subject areas

Keywords

  • Breaking bad news, Healthcare professionals, Patient centered care, Patient-provider communication, Pediatric oncology, Shared decision-making, User-centered design