3.9: Communicating with patients
- Page ID
- 49266
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There are several points to be kept in mind when communicating with patients. The first point is that you are there to provide care and support to the patient.
- Be open, respectful and gracious in all your interactions with the patient and keep his/her cultural preferences in mind.
- Answer nurses’ bells promptly.
- Make sure you have the patients’ attention when communicating.
- Use words that are non-threatening – explain what you would like to do and do not give orders to the patient.
- Use simple, understandable phrases, not medical terms as most patients do not understand these terms.
- Speak clearly and courteously.
- Use a pleasant and normal tone of voice to the hard of hearing.
- Always stand so that the patient can see the nurse’s face when communicating, as lip reading is part of all normal hearing.
- Use body language that is appropriate.
- Explain facts and procedures before donning a mask that covers the wearer’s mouth and lower face.
- Be alert to the patient’s needs. Allow time for answers to your requests and to answer patient’s questions [17].