[ Haupnavigation: Zur Subnavigation dieser Website springen? ]
[ Inhalt der Seite: Zu den Serviceelementen dieser Seite springen? ]
Communicating with patients: Obtaining information 2
Here are more skills that can be useful when interviewing a patient for the first time. This time the information you are trying to obtain from the patient is more precisely about his or her condition.
- After using openers for conversation like "Can you tell me about the pain?" or open questions move then to closed questions. Closed questions require a yes, no or other brief response.
-
LISTEN and then follow up with questions such as:
"Exactly where is it?""Does the pain move?""Is there anything that makes it better?""Is there anything that makes it worse?""Is it associated with any other symptoms?"
- Pick up verbal cues: The patient may consistently return to a topic.
- Pick up non-verbal cues: The patient may slow their speech, adjust the volume of their speech or use emphasis, they may also rub their hands together or avoid eye contact.
-
Make empathic statements
"I can see you are anxious about this.""You seem worried.""I understand why you are concerned.""You seem tired."
-
Probe sensitively
"Many patients feel uncomfortable talking about their sexual health. How do you feel?""I can see this is difficult for you. Take your time in answering the questions."
-
Show warmth
This is conveyed by verbal and non-verbal communication - you need to adjust your vocal tones as well as adopt a posture that conveys interest. You may find that touching the patient is appropriate as well as listening to what they are telling you not what you want to hear. However, if you feel that touching is appropriate, be sure to get the patient's consent before doing so as they might consider it inappropriate.
Listening comprehension
Watch this video and take notes about the communication skills the students are using.
Choose your internet connection speed:
To view the movie clips, you need Quicktime Player Version 6 or higher.
You can download it here.
Analyse & reflect
After watching the video, discuss the following questions with your partner.
What patient-centred skills does the clinician use in this videoclip?
Choose three skills and compare your answer with the feedback in the box.
