Finding the Balance Between Truth and Hope in Critical Illness Discussions

Truth and hope are crucial, yet complex, aspects of healthcare, often in tension with each other. Balancing truth-telling with the need to inspire hope is a significant challenge for healthcare professionals, particularly in situations involving serious illness and end-of-life care. While truthfulness is generally valued, some situations may warrant a more nuanced approach to preserve a patient’s hope, especially when truth-telling could be detrimental.

Modern Medicine – Issue 4, 2025