Minggu, 01 Juni 2014

Essential Elements For Positive Patient & Healthcare Relations

By Hazel A. Perry


People express their thoughts and emotions to one another both verbally and non-verbally, which together constitute communication. Healthcare is one industry which requires the use of clear and effective communication in many ways every day. Being able to connect with others through carefully chosen words and gestures is critical to good patient & healthcare relations.

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.

Sometimes patients may be especially difficult and reluctant to receive care, usually out of fear. Such a situation also calls for the need to possess strong communication skills, as the patient's animosity poses a considerable barrier. A healthcare worker who can reach these people by calming their fears and convincing them to accept medical assistance is truly invaluable to the facility he or she is working at.

Being honest with patients is the cornerstone to developing trust, one very important element of good relations with their healthcare providers. This includes being able to level with them in a tactful way and demonstrating integrity by also keeping one's word to them. When a caregiver finds himself or herself unable to fulfill a promise to a patient, an explanation must always be provided.

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.

Showing consideration for patients with different cultural backgrounds is important too. A gesture which may be viewed as kind by one ethnic group, may be seen as inappropriate and offensive by another, so it's advisable to find this information out by simply asking the patient what he or she is comfortable with rather than treating everyone the same.

Effectively relating information so others comprehend, and not failing to show compassion and empathy towards their position are the most important qualities in healthcare professionals where communication is concerned. Happy patients mean happy staff, as those who are more at ease will also be more receptive to care.




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