Program to Enhance Relational and Communication Skills (PERCS)

Initiated in collaboration with Children’s Hospital Boston, PERCS is an educational program for house staff, medical residents, nurses, and allied health professionals focused on improving communication and relationship-building skills with children and families. The one-day workshop includes interviewing of simulated patients, video feedback, personal and professional debriefing, and didactic presentations in pediatric palliative care and communication principles. This workshop continues to be offered on a monthly basis, and has been attended by over 150 practitioners. The educational philosophy and teaching strategies are highlighted in a videotape being disseminated nationally as part of the Initiative for Pediatric Palliative Care curriculum. The program is currently being expanded and adapted for use in neonatal intensive care units.