Search among the hundreds of online, on-demand courses our Education Library offers to improve communications with patients, such as the following, setting the stage for clear expectations.
Communicating with Patients
Effective communication with patients and families is the foundation for a therapeutic, safe, and positive patient experience. The patient‘s experience of care is greatly influenced by what is communicated and observed. It is also a vital component of obtaining an accurate history and physical assessment, providing informed, comprehensive care, and educating patients and families to achieve optimal outcomes. The goal of this course is to provide information about how to effectively communicate with patients in healthcare settings.
Learning Objectives
- Identify at least three specific elements of effective communication and how communication affects the patient and family experience.
- Recall important components of cultural competence and inclusivity when communicating with patients and families.
Communicating Effectively
Good communication can be challenging because of the many distractors in today’s workplace, such as technology, stress, and multitasking. If communication is weak, it can lead to poor work relationships and decreased satisfaction for everyone. It is essential for you to learn how to communicate effectively with everyone you come into contact with. This course discusses how to communicate clearly, concisely, and professionally.
Learning Objective
- Identify the key elements of communication.
Communication Essentials: Effective Listening
Listening skills are an often-undeveloped component of effective communication. Leaders and managers with strong listening skills build more productive and engaged teams with increased effectiveness. In this course, you will learn how managers and leaders can listen actively to build stronger teams and increase their impact. You will also learn the importance of establishing common ground and practicing empathy as you apply the techniques for becoming a better listener. The goal of this course is to provide managers and leaders with the awareness and skills to be effective communicators.
Learning Objectives
- Discuss best practice techniques for improving your active listening skills.
- Describe at least two benefits of active listening.
Communicating with Patients with Limited English Proficiency
Within healthcare, a patient with limited English proficiency (LEP) is an individual whose primary means of communication is not English and who has a limited command of the language in reading, writing, speaking, or understanding (Office for Civil Rights, 2016). These patients need the careful attention of healthcare personnel to ensure the safety and quality of care. Healthcare professionals should understand regulations and standards related to patients with LEP, such as the use of an interpreter for communication. The goal of this educational program is to improve the ability of the healthcare team to provide quality care and better outcomes for patients with limited English proficiency (LEP).
Learning Objectives
- Recall the importance of medical interpretation services for patients with LEP.
- Identify regulatory, accreditation, and evidence-based standards related to patients with LEP and linguistic services.
- Choose strategies for effectively communicating with patients with LEP, including best practices when using an interpreter.