Grave Words: Tools for Discussing End of Life Choices

From The Fanlight Collection

Directed by Maren Grainger-Monsen, M.D.

25 minutes / Color
Release: 1996
Copyright: 1996

Talking with patients about end-of-life care decisions is a challenge for many physicians and healthcare providers. Produced by a physician, this video takes a unique approach to this topic by blending humor, music, and insightful interviews to confront the issues that arise in these discussions. Nationally recognized experts offer their counsel in dealing with these issues and a reenacted "ideal conversation" between a physician and a terminally ill patient provides a model for doctors in carrying out these conversations in their own practices.

"Combines light-hearted scenarios of poor to absurd communications with patients on issues of death and dying, with measured advice from physicians expert in such communications. Cultural sensitivity is briefly discussed, with an emphasis on respecting the patient's individuality rather than assuming a fit within cultural expectations."—Literature, Arts, and Medicine Database

“Colorful and engaging! Covers the key elements of communicating with dying patients, including insightful comments about crossing cultural barriers.” —Journal of Palliative Medicine

“Exceedingly well done!” —Oncology Nursing Forum

Ways to Watch

Colleges, Universities, Government Agencies, Hospitals, and Corporations

Purchase DVD for $199.00

Credits

A film by Maren Grainger-Monsen, M.D.

Select Accolades

  • First Place, Intl. Health & Medical Film Festival
  • Second Place, Association for Death Education & Counseling
  • Bronze Apple, National Educational Media Network
  • Silver Medal, CINDY Competition
  • Gold Medal, Regional Cinema in Industry Competition
  • Silver Medal, International Cinema in Industry Competition

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