Factors that Improve Effective Communication with Patients

What are the factors known to improve effective communication?

The following is a list of the factors that contribute to effective communication with patients during clinical assessment. 

Use Minimal Prompts

Interrupting your patient during a clinical assessment prohibits them from explaining their concerns. Points that are important for you as a clinician are often less important for the patient.  Knowing whatever is important to the patients and addressing their concerns is immensely important from a holistic and biopsychosocial model of health care. Using minimal prompts helps patients to communicate their concerns so you can address them. 

1. Sit squarely in relation to the patient
2. Open body position in relation to the patient
3. Leaning slightly towards the client
4. Eye contact maintained
5. Relax while listening
6. Listen to the message content
7. Listen for feelings
8. Respond to feelings
9. Note all non-verbal cues