Verbal and non-verbal communication plays a major role in how people relate to one another. In the healthcare field, which involves extensive interaction between patients and professionals such as doctors and nurses, it is of particular importance. The key to successful patient & healthcare relations is the effective use of communication between these two parties.
The need for excellent communication skills is needed routinely in healthcare. The ability to both understand others and be understood oneself is vital to establishing and maintaining positive relationships between patients and medical staff. Examples where this is necessary include explaining a diagnosis and treatment options, reassuring upset patients of family members, obtaining informed consent, and educating patients about use of medications or special nutritional needs.
Dealing with difficult patients is another situation which requires a certain degree of know-how in communications. These people are most often frightened which can make reaching them considerably harder, but with the right words and attitude, the nurse of doctor can give them the reassurance they need to feel at ease and allow any necessary procedures to be performed.
Honesty is always the best policy when dealing with patients. Without this, it is impossible for trust to be established. Knowing how to relay the truth tactfully and keeping one's word are an important part of this. If for any reason the nurse or doctor is not able to keep a promise to a patient, out of respect for this person, he or she must explain why it was not possible.
A caregiver must be easy to approach and contact when needed, and should always be attentive to the needs of his or her patients. Showing people that their well-being matters above all else and listening intently to them will make their experience a positive one. Family members of patients should also feel equally comfortable about approaching those caring for their loved ones.
Patients with different cultural backgrounds and beliefs are likely to have values which differ from that of others, this fact should always be taken into consideration when communicating with them. If one is uncertain whether a particular action or gesture is acceptable to someone of another background, it's best to always ask first instead of assuming and making them uncomfortable.
Communicating in a way which is easy to understand and sensitive to the needs of the patient is always the best approach for everyone involved. Showing empathy can go a long way in making them more comfortable and will also make the healthcare professional's job easier by increasing cooperation in patients.
The need for excellent communication skills is needed routinely in healthcare. The ability to both understand others and be understood oneself is vital to establishing and maintaining positive relationships between patients and medical staff. Examples where this is necessary include explaining a diagnosis and treatment options, reassuring upset patients of family members, obtaining informed consent, and educating patients about use of medications or special nutritional needs.
Dealing with difficult patients is another situation which requires a certain degree of know-how in communications. These people are most often frightened which can make reaching them considerably harder, but with the right words and attitude, the nurse of doctor can give them the reassurance they need to feel at ease and allow any necessary procedures to be performed.
Honesty is always the best policy when dealing with patients. Without this, it is impossible for trust to be established. Knowing how to relay the truth tactfully and keeping one's word are an important part of this. If for any reason the nurse or doctor is not able to keep a promise to a patient, out of respect for this person, he or she must explain why it was not possible.
A caregiver must be easy to approach and contact when needed, and should always be attentive to the needs of his or her patients. Showing people that their well-being matters above all else and listening intently to them will make their experience a positive one. Family members of patients should also feel equally comfortable about approaching those caring for their loved ones.
Patients with different cultural backgrounds and beliefs are likely to have values which differ from that of others, this fact should always be taken into consideration when communicating with them. If one is uncertain whether a particular action or gesture is acceptable to someone of another background, it's best to always ask first instead of assuming and making them uncomfortable.
Communicating in a way which is easy to understand and sensitive to the needs of the patient is always the best approach for everyone involved. Showing empathy can go a long way in making them more comfortable and will also make the healthcare professional's job easier by increasing cooperation in patients.
About the Author:
Edward J. Stark is a marketing expert that specializes in healthcare focused marketing. If you are interested in learning more about marketing healthcare services he suggests that you check out www.beaconfey.com.
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