Upon completion of this learning activity, participants should be able to:
1. Recognize the impact of living in a consistent state of threat on our emotional and mental well-being; and improve patient care by identifying personal triggers, stress responses, and strategies to enhance resilience and reduce compassion fatigue.
2. Differentiate between empathy and compassion to maintain emotional boundaries and prevent burnout while fostering meaningful, patient-centered interactions.
3. Apply tools such as the Drama Triangle, Presence, Fact versus Story, and “The Work” to shift from reactive behaviors to intentional, solution-oriented communication with patients, families, and colleagues.
4. Develop emotional literacy and expression skills to decrease burnout, effectively navigate difficult conversations, de-escalate tense situations, and create a psychologically safe environment for patients and staff.
5. Practice speaking up with curiosity and clarity by distinguishing facts from stories, using awareness and acceptance techniques, and engaging in constructive dialogue to enhance teamwork and patient safety.