Effective Communication Techniques

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Introduction

Resource Aims

Effective Communication Techniques in a healthcare setting has been developed on the bases that physiotherapists are in a unique position as part of a multidisciplinary team in that they can have substantially more contact time with patients than other members of the team. This means the physiotherapist is more appropriately positioned to develop a deeper patient-therapist relationship and in doing so educate and empower the patient of their physical condition and management.
Communication is an important tool in a healthcare setting that when used effectively can educate, empower and de-threaten common health issues patients present with in practice. However, if it is used ineffectively it can have detrimental effects creating fear, confusion and anxiety in patients as well as encouraging resistance to lifestyle changes and healthy behaviours.
It can be overwhelming for newly qualified or student physiotherapists as they must deal with such a broad range of conditions as well as differences in patient personalities, beliefs and motivation. This resource pack uses specific physical conditions as examples, however the communication strategies can be adapted and applied effectively across the broad range of physical conditions dealt with by physiotherapists.
This resource tool is in no way comprehensive and does not aim to cover every physical and mental condition dealt with by physiotherapists. For this reason, this tool is limited to communication around physical conditions and does not include information on communicating with mental issues or learning problems. It is a guide with suggested examples which can be adapted and applied to different situations with regards explaining and treating physical conditions. Included are further readings, reflection sections and relevant continuous professional development recommended to encourage the reader to actively engage with and consolidate their learning.

Audience

The resource is aimed at student/recently qualified physiotherapists. However, this should not be limited as other healthcare professionals, academics or individuals with an interest in the topic may extract relevant and useful information.

Learning Outcomes

1) To identify the patients positive and negative emotional triggers and evaluate the impact on physical presentation.

2) Analyse the prevailing language/metaphors that exist within healthcare, and asses their impact on the bio-psycho-social model of pain.

3) Understand how assesment of disorders/pain needs to vary for different patients.

4) To summarise effective communication methods that may be helpful when explaining a diagnosis to patients.

References

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