title: Viewpoint - An open and honest approach to diagnosis.
abstract: THE CONCEPT of pre- and post-diagnostic counselling is not new. If it is delivered effectively, it can be empowering for patients and give them a sense of control. While every service may not have a clear system to support all the principles, every member of the nursing team can improve the communication skills they bring to the counselling process.
authors.affiliation: South Staffordshire and Shropshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.
authors.forename: Sue
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Edwards