{"id":25410,"date":"2025-08-25T10:57:28","date_gmt":"2025-08-25T17:57:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sites.mind.uci.edu\/brain-donation-modules\/?page_id=25410"},"modified":"2025-08-28T17:09:34","modified_gmt":"2025-08-29T00:09:34","slug":"foundations-of-compassionate-communication","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/sites.mind.uci.edu\/brain-donation-modules\/foundations-of-compassionate-communication\/","title":{"rendered":"Foundations of Compassionate Communication"},"content":{"rendered":"[vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_background&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_color=&#8221;#383838&#8243; bg_image=&#8221;25329&#8243; bg_position=&#8221;center center&#8221; background_image_loading=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_repeat=&#8221;no-repeat&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;4%&#8221; 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column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][split_line_heading animation_type=&#8221;line-reveal-by-space&#8221; font_style=&#8221;h2&#8243; line_reveal_by_space_text_effect=&#8221;none&#8221; content_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; mobile_content_alignment=&#8221;inherit&#8221; link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; font_size=&#8221;3vw&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; text_content=&#8221;Foundations of Compassionate Communication&#8221;][\/split_line_heading][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<ul>\n<li>Learning Objectives<\/li>\n<li>Core Strategies and Talking Points<\/li>\n<li>Case Examples and Scenarios<\/li>\n<li>Reflection Prompts<\/li>\n<li>Resources<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;padding-6-percent&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;left&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;0px&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; advanced_gradient_angle=&#8221;0&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;2\/3&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<h1>Module <strong>1:<\/strong> Foundations of Compassionate Communication<\/h1>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]Compassionate communication is the foundation of all interactions with families in brain donation. This section introduces the principles of empathy, active listening, and authenticity, helping staff create trust and understanding from the very first conversation.[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221;][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_position=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221;][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221;][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<h3 data-start=\"227\" data-end=\"256\"><strong data-start=\"231\" data-end=\"254\">Learning Objectives<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"257\" data-end=\"315\">By the end of this module, participants will be able to:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"316\" data-end=\"629\">\n<li data-start=\"316\" data-end=\"392\">\n<p data-start=\"318\" data-end=\"392\">Understand the principles of compassionate and empathetic communication.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"393\" data-end=\"474\">\n<p data-start=\"395\" data-end=\"474\">Apply active listening skills to create meaningful connections with families.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"475\" data-end=\"549\">\n<p data-start=\"477\" data-end=\"549\">Use clear, jargon-free language that supports trust and understanding.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"550\" data-end=\"629\">\n<p data-start=\"552\" data-end=\"629\">Recognize the role of authenticity and presence in sensitive conversations.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221;][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<h3><strong>Core Strategies and Talking Points<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<h3 data-start=\"354\" data-end=\"384\"><strong data-start=\"358\" data-end=\"382\">1. Lead with Empathy<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"385\" data-end=\"551\">Empathy is the cornerstone of compassionate communication. Families in grief don\u2019t need solutions \u2014 they need to feel that their emotions are heard and validated.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"552\" data-end=\"933\">\n<li data-start=\"552\" data-end=\"631\">\n<p data-start=\"554\" data-end=\"631\">Begin every interaction by centering the family\u2019s emotions and perspective.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"632\" data-end=\"767\">\n<p data-start=\"634\" data-end=\"767\">Validate feelings without trying to \u201cfix\u201d them: \u201cI hear how painful this is,\u201d instead of offering platitudes like \u201ctime will heal.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"768\" data-end=\"847\">\n<p data-start=\"770\" data-end=\"847\">Use gentle tone and body language that communicates understanding and care.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"848\" data-end=\"933\">\n<p data-start=\"850\" data-end=\"933\">Allow space for silence \u2014 sometimes empathy is best shown by presence, not words.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-start=\"940\" data-end=\"978\"><strong data-start=\"944\" data-end=\"976\">2. Practice Active Listening<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"979\" data-end=\"1147\">Listening well shows families that their voices matter. It builds trust and helps staff respond to what families actually need, not just what staff think they need.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1148\" data-end=\"1574\">\n<li data-start=\"1148\" data-end=\"1268\">\n<p data-start=\"1150\" data-end=\"1268\">If in person, maintain eye contact, nod, and use affirming phrases like \u201cI understand\u201d or \u201cTell me more about that.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1269\" data-end=\"1337\">\n<p data-start=\"1271\" data-end=\"1337\">Avoid interrupting \u2014 let families speak fully before responding.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1338\" data-end=\"1483\">\n<p data-start=\"1340\" data-end=\"1483\">Reflect back what families share to demonstrate understanding: \u201cI hear that you\u2019re worried about how this might affect funeral arrangements.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1484\" data-end=\"1574\">\n<p data-start=\"1486\" data-end=\"1574\">Notice non-verbal cues \u2014 tears, silence, or body language may reveal as much as words.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-start=\"1581\" data-end=\"1624\"><strong data-start=\"1585\" data-end=\"1622\">3. Communicate Clearly and Simply<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"1625\" data-end=\"1793\">Families may be overwhelmed and unable to process complex or technical explanations. Simple, clear communication ensures they can follow along without added stress.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"1794\" data-end=\"2218\">\n<li data-start=\"1794\" data-end=\"1923\">\n<p data-start=\"1796\" data-end=\"1923\">Avoid medical or research jargon \u2014 replace \u201cneuropathological examination\u201d with \u201cstudying brain tissue under the microscope.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1924\" data-end=\"2019\">\n<p data-start=\"1926\" data-end=\"2019\">Break down complex information into small, digestible pieces rather than long explanations.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2020\" data-end=\"2135\">\n<p data-start=\"2022\" data-end=\"2135\">Pause frequently to check understanding: \u201cDoes that make sense so far?\u201d or \u201cWould you like me to explain more?\u201d<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2136\" data-end=\"2218\">\n<p data-start=\"2138\" data-end=\"2218\">Use visual aids or written materials if available, to reinforce understanding.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 data-start=\"2225\" data-end=\"2262\"><strong data-start=\"2229\" data-end=\"2260\">4. Be Authentic and Present<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"2263\" data-end=\"2420\">Families sense when staff are detached or rushed. Authenticity builds connection and reassures families that they are being treated as people, not cases.<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"2421\" data-end=\"2824\">\n<li data-start=\"2421\" data-end=\"2490\">\n<p data-start=\"2423\" data-end=\"2490\">Slow your pace, breathe, and give the family your full attention.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2491\" data-end=\"2598\">\n<p data-start=\"2493\" data-end=\"2598\">Avoid sounding like you\u2019re reading from a script \u2014 speak naturally while covering required information.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2599\" data-end=\"2717\">\n<p data-start=\"2601\" data-end=\"2717\">Be transparent about your role and purpose: \u201cI\u2019m here to provide information and support throughout this process.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2718\" data-end=\"2824\">\n<p data-start=\"2720\" data-end=\"2824\">Show genuine care in your tone and demeanor \u2014 sincerity fosters trust even in difficult conversations.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<h3><strong>Case Examples and Scenarios<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<p data-start=\"252\" data-end=\"667\">Families respond in very different ways during conversations about brain donation \u2014 some ask many questions, others remain quiet, and some express strong emotions. These case examples illustrate common situations and demonstrate how compassionate communication techniques can turn challenging moments into opportunities to build trust, show empathy, and support families in a way that feels respectful and caring.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Scenario 1: The Question-Filled Conversation<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Context: A family member is anxious and interrupts often, asking detailed questions about the process. The staff member has a script to get through but notices the family\u2019s urgency.<\/li>\n<li>Less Effective: The staff member continues reading from their talking points, saying, \u201cIf I can just finish explaining, I\u2019ll get to your questions at the end.\u201d The family grows frustrated, feeling ignored.<\/li>\n<li>More Effective: The staff member pauses after each question, answers thoughtfully, and validates the concern: \u201cThat\u2019s an excellent question \u2014 many families wonder the same thing. I\u2019m glad you brought it up.\u201d This approach slows down the exchange but reassures the family that their voice matters, strengthening trust and connection.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Scenario 2: The Quiet and Withdrawn Family<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Context: A family sits silently, making little eye contact. They nod occasionally but do not volunteer questions or comments.<\/li>\n<li>Less Effective: Feeling uncomfortable with the silence, the staff member fills the space with nonstop information, speaking quickly to avoid awkward pauses. The family appears even more withdrawn, overwhelmed by the flood of details.<\/li>\n<li>More Effective: The staff member resists the urge to fill the silence. After sharing a short piece of information, they pause and ask gently, \u201cWould it help if I explained a little more about this part?\u201d This invites engagement without pressure. By creating room for quiet reflection, the staff member respects the family\u2019s emotional state and builds trust at their pace.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Scenario 3: The Emotional Outburst<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Context: During the conversation, a family member suddenly becomes tearful and raises their voice: \u201cI can\u2019t believe you\u2019re asking us this right now. Don\u2019t you see how hard this is?\u201d The staff member feels caught off guard.<\/li>\n<li>Less Effective: The staff member rushes to calm the family with reassurance, saying, \u201cPlease don\u2019t be upset \u2014 this is important.\u201d The family feels invalidated, as though their emotions are being brushed aside.<\/li>\n<li>More Effective: The staff member pauses, maintains a calm and compassionate tone, and acknowledges the emotion directly: \u201cI can see how painful this is, and I\u2019m so sorry. This is such a difficult time, and I want to support you.\u201d After giving space for the family member to cry, the staff member gently adds: \u201cWould you like me to continue now, or would it help if I came back a little later?\u201d By centering the family\u2019s emotional state, the staff member demonstrates empathy and gives them agency over the pace of the conversation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221;][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<h4><strong>Reflection Prompts<\/strong><\/h4>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]Reflection questions encourage staff to pause and think about their own communication style. These prompts foster self-awareness and help staff integrate compassionate practices into their everyday approach.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"319\" data-end=\"779\"><strong data-start=\"319\" data-end=\"379\">1. What does \u201cbeing empathetic\u201d mean to you in practice?<\/strong><br data-start=\"379\" data-end=\"382\" \/>Reflect on how empathy shows up in your daily interactions. Is it in your words, your tone, your body language, or the way you give space for silence? Consider how empathy might look different when speaking with grieving families \u2014 for example, choosing presence and listening over problem-solving. How can you embody empathy consistently, even in stressful or emotionally charged conversations?<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"786\" data-end=\"1221\"><strong data-start=\"786\" data-end=\"879\">2. Think of a time you felt truly listened to. What made that interaction feel different?<\/strong><br data-start=\"879\" data-end=\"882\" \/>Recall a personal experience when someone gave you their full attention. Did they make eye contact, pause to really hear you, or reflect your words back? What impact did that have on how safe or valued you felt? Reflect on how you might bring those same behaviors into your conversations with families, especially when emotions are high.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1228\" data-end=\"1777\"><strong data-start=\"1228\" data-end=\"1356\">3. How might you simplify your language to ensure all families, regardless of background, feel included in the conversation?<\/strong><br data-start=\"1356\" data-end=\"1359\" \/>Consider whether you tend to use technical terms or medical jargon without realizing it. What words or phrases could you replace with simpler, more familiar language? How can you check for understanding without making families feel embarrassed if they don\u2019t know a term? Think about how simplifying language is not \u201ctalking down\u201d to families \u2014 it is showing respect and making sure they feel included in the process.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221;][toggles style=&#8221;default&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221;][toggle color=&#8221;Default&#8221; heading_tag=&#8221;default&#8221; heading_tag_functionality=&#8221;default&#8221; title=&#8221;FAQs&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<h1 data-start=\"251\" data-end=\"308\"><strong data-start=\"253\" data-end=\"306\">FAQs \u2013 Foundations of Compassionate Communication<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p data-start=\"310\" data-end=\"556\"><strong data-start=\"310\" data-end=\"365\">Q: What if I don\u2019t know what to say in the moment?<\/strong><br data-start=\"365\" data-end=\"368\">A. It\u2019s okay to pause and take a breath. Acknowledge the family\u2019s emotions first: \u201cI can see this is very hard. I\u2019m here with you.\u201d Compassion and presence matter more than perfect words.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"563\" data-end=\"879\"><strong data-start=\"563\" data-end=\"619\">Q: How do I handle silence without feeling awkward?<\/strong><br data-start=\"619\" data-end=\"622\">A. Silence often gives families space to process information or emotions. Resist the urge to fill the gap with more details. Instead, allow the pause and, if needed, gently check in: \u201cWould it help if I explained a little more, or would you like a moment?\u201d<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"886\" data-end=\"1191\"><strong data-start=\"886\" data-end=\"964\">Q: How can I make sure I\u2019m really listening, not just waiting to respond?<\/strong><br data-start=\"964\" data-end=\"967\">A. Focus on the family\u2019s words, tone, and body language before formulating your answer. Use reflective statements such as: \u201cIt sounds like you\u2019re worried about\u2026\u201d This shows understanding and prevents you from rushing ahead.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1198\" data-end=\"1548\"><strong data-start=\"1198\" data-end=\"1282\">Q4: What if I accidentally use jargon or language the family doesn\u2019t understand?<\/strong><br data-start=\"1282\" data-end=\"1285\">A. If you notice confusion, stop and reframe immediately. Say: \u201cI\u2019m sorry \u2014 let me explain that in a simpler way.\u201d For example, replace \u201cneuropathology\u201d with \u201cstudying the brain tissue under a microscope.\u201d Checking for understanding regularly prevents overwhelm.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1555\" data-end=\"1863\"><strong data-start=\"1555\" data-end=\"1635\">Q: How do I stay authentic if I\u2019m required to cover certain talking points?<\/strong><br data-start=\"1635\" data-end=\"1638\">A. You can follow program guidelines while still sounding natural. Speak conversationally, and if you need to reference a script, glance at it but return to eye contact quickly. Families value sincerity over polished delivery.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1870\" data-end=\"2143\"><strong data-start=\"1870\" data-end=\"1941\">Q: What if a family asks me a question I don\u2019t know the answer to?<\/strong><br data-start=\"1941\" data-end=\"1944\">A. Be honest. Say: \u201cThat\u2019s a great question \u2014 I don\u2019t want to give you the wrong information. Let me confirm and get back to you.\u201d Families will trust honesty more than a rushed or uncertain answer.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/toggle][\/toggles][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_background&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_color=&#8221;#383838&#8243; bg_image=&#8221;25329&#8243; bg_position=&#8221;center center&#8221; background_image_loading=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_repeat=&#8221;no-repeat&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;4%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;4%&#8221; text_color=&#8221;light&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; enable_gradient=&#8221;true&#8221; color_overlay=&#8221;#191919&#8243; 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