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Objectives To provide a clinical update on practical strategies to enhance the quality of communication in the palliative and end-of-life medical care settings. Data Sources Published articles, textbooks, reports, and clinical experience. Conclusion The components of effective and compassionate care throughout the advanced illness trajectory require thoughtful and strategic communication with patients, families, and members of the health care team. Unfortunately, few health care professionals are formally trained in communication skills. Implications for Nursing Practice Nurses who possess self-awareness and are skilled in effective communication practices are integral to the provision of high-quality palliative care for patients and families coping with advanced malignancies.

Objectives To provide practical strategies to enhance the quality of communication in the palliative and end-of-life medical care settings. Data sources Published articles, textbooks, and reports. Conclusion The components of effective and compassionate care at the end of life require successful communication with patients, families, and members of the health care team. Unfortunately, few health care professionals are formally trained in communication skills. Implications for nursing practice Nurses who possess self-awareness and are skilled in effective communication practices are integral to the provision of high-quality palliative care for patients and families coping with advanced malignancies.