Norma Movie Summary

Norma is a patient who has an aggressive cancer. She has being treated for the past two years by Dr. Aymen Elfiky, an oncologist. The doctor is having difficulties explaining the progression of the disease to the patient. He asked a palliative physician, Dr. Kathy Selvaggi to assist with explaining the progressive disease and to find out what the patient’s wishes are. Dr. Elfiky explained to the patient the current treatment was not working. While Dr. Selvaggi discussed with the patient about receiving the best quality of life for the remaining time. After the gloomy news, Norma became sad and want to go back home to plan a trip to Walt Disney for her baby. A few days later, Norma was told by Dr. Selvaggi that her condition was declining rapidly and she needed to begin certain medications that could not be given in a home environment. After that conversation with Dr. Selvaggi, Norma realizes that the end was near. Norma died a few days afterward. …show more content…
Elfiky had Dr. Selvaggi to assistance with the discussion of the disease to Norma. Sometimes doctors avoid having meaningful discussions of patient’s diagnosis with a terminal illness and with their families. Failing to communicate effectively can lead unnecessary tests rather than focusing on comfort and support for the patient. It is a good plan for healthcare professionals to collaborate with other professionals that specialized in terminal ill patients. Dr. Selvaggi was also helpful in explaining why it was important to give the patient a timeline so that she could attempt to be prepare. One of the bad aspects of communication in the video was Dr. Elfiky waiting two week prior to patient death to explain the seriousness of her condition. My experience as a hospice nurse is that the majority of patients wish to know the full truth about their condition. I believe patients are more emotional prepare when they are told up front about their