Communication Influences and Methods

Influences on Communication

• Key factors affecting communication: Who, What, Where, When, Why, and the methods utilized.

Methods of Communication

• Verbal: Spoken language in conversations.
• Non-verbal: Body language, facial expressions, and gestures.
• Written: Documentation, notes, and letters.
• Electronic: Digital communication via email, texts, or virtual visits.

Communication Styles and Levels

• Informal: Casual conversations.
• Intrapersonal: Internal self-talk.
• Interpersonal: Interaction between individuals.
• Formal: Structured, professional exchanges.

Lifespan Communication Considerations

• Older Adults:
  • Avoid "elder speak"; treat respectfully without condescension.
  • Acknowledge needs for glasses/hearing aids; be mindful of physical limitations.
• Toddlers (1-3 years):
  • Engage adults first; simplify questions to avoid yes/no answers.
  • Incorporate games and control options to facilitate communication.
• Grade School (6-11 years):
  • Consider varying levels of maturity; be aware of potential sassiness in ages 9-11.
  • Use positive reinforcement for ages 6-8 who seek approval.

General Communication Tips

• Foster kindness and consideration in interactions.
• Clearly explain actions before proceeding.
• Minimize distractions to enhance focus; ask one question at a time.
• Be observant of pain or discomfort cues.
• Recognize and respect gender, social, and cultural differences.

Communication Technologies

• Use of Computers, Electronic Health Records (EHR), Phones, Emails, Texts, Virtual Visits, and Social Media for communication in healthcare.

Phases of Nurse/Patient Communication

• Orientation Phase: Introduce self and identify patient.
• Identification and Exploration Phase: Understand patient needs and build rapport.
• Resolution Phase: Conclude interactions, including hand-offs to other care providers.

Therapeutic Communication

• Defined as a process where nurses aid patients in better understanding through intentional communication strategies that encourage expression of feelings and ideas.

Barriers to Effective Communication

• Challenging behaviors can include probing excessively, changing the subject, defensiveness, providing false reassurance, disagreement, and judgment.

Impaired Communication

• Strategies for addressing impaired communication include utilizing alternative communication methods and team collaboration.

Collaboration in Healthcare

• Defined as professionals from varied backgrounds providing comprehensive care while working with patients and families.
• Emphasizes the importance of role clarity, trust, communication, and collective leadership in team dynamics.

Interprofessional Communication

• Involves shared goals, common language, and active listening; frameworks like SBAR are used for clarity.

Benefits of Interprofessional Collaboration

• Demonstrated benefits include improved patient outcomes, coordination of healthcare services, and reduced healthcare costs associated with hospital admissions and complications.

This quiz explores the various factors influencing communication, including styles and methods suitable for different age groups. Emphasis is placed on showing respect and understanding the communication needs of older adults and toddlers. Test your knowledge on effective communication strategies across various settings.