[Truth at bedside in relation to poor prognosis. Psychological aspects].

Patients as well as their physicians react in different ways to being confronted with imminent death. The physician has to decide which information to give a patient in which situation. A fatal prognosis has to be accompanied by clear and understandable information on chances and limits which are still important for the patient. This should also be the first step toward helpful and supporting guidance in the last period of life.