Communication Opinion Paper

University of Phoenix
HCS/320
Professor Tran

Effective communication is imperative in every situation, but most significantly in healthcare field. Communicating effectively helps people understand clearly the circumstances surrounding the patient or any other profession. Minimal to no errors are made when things are said in good or bad situations arise because of the way it was handled with communication. Having effective communication builds confidence, respect and problem solving. In order to have effective communication in any situation whether at home with family, conducting business out and about, in a profession or just with friends, listening is the number one ingredient, then non-verbal communication, managing stress, and emotional awareness. All of these are so important in communicating every day. Listening is more than just “hearing” what is being said, it is understand and feeling what is being said. To do this effectively, create an environment where the person feels comfortable. This will help make the words flow out from the speaker easier due to being put at ease. Repeat what the speaker said to clarify anything that can cause confusion. Even if the situation is tense or negative, make the speaker feel heard. This is especially important when physicians or any type of care giver meets with their patients. If the patient feels rushed to explain things, or cut off, then care of the patient is diminished greatly causing risk to the patient. Non-verbal communication speaks louder than words! Body language, facial expressions, breathing sounds, eye expressions and even tone of voice can make or break the conversation. Instead of focusing elsewhere like phones, what is going on around the situation, pay attention, make eye contact, uncross arms and give the speaker your undivided attention. Basically don’t say one thing with words, and show the speaker or listener something different with body language. Managing stress is crucial as well in effective conversations. Yes, things do get tense with patients or at meetings but learning how to handle it makes a difference. Think of something soothing, agree to disagree, put humor in the situation, practice deep breathing techniques, or even request to postpone an answer for a few minutes to make the conversation go more smoothly and effectively. Last but not least, emotional awareness is just as important to communication too. Be in touch with how the situation is feeling. Don’t neutralize it. Being able to empathize with the patient or the person that is involved goes a long ways. No one said that you have to like the person or the situation in order to make the situation effective. A provider can encourage a reluctant consumer to communicate candidly by having them involved what is going on with their healthcare. Asking them what they may think of what is going on and what they would like to see happen. Open communication between the physician and the patient is key for success. In other words, an open door policy initiated by the physician. The physician