Communication Skills - Exam Summary PDF

**Communication Skills - Exam Summary** **Objectives** - Understand the importance of communication skills in medical practice. - List factors that hinder effective physician-patient communication. - Discuss steps to begin, facilitate, and end a successful interview. - Learn communi...

**Communication Skills - Exam Summary** **Objectives** - Understand the importance of communication skills in medical practice. - List factors that hinder effective physician-patient communication. - Discuss steps to begin, facilitate, and end a successful interview. - Learn communication skills during consultations. **Key Points** **Definition of Communication** - Sharing information, feelings, and ideas through conscious or unconscious processes. **Process of Communication** 1. Dynamic (changes continuously). 2. Continuous (never stops). 3. Irreversible (once sent, messages can't be erased). 4. Transactional (simultaneous exchange of messages). **Forms of Communication** - **Verbal**: Spoken or written words. - **Non-Verbal**: Body language, gestures, facial expressions. **Elements of Communication** 1. Message: Content being communicated. 2. Channel: Medium used for communication. 3. Receptor: Receiver of the message. 4. Feedback: Reaction or response. **Skills for Effective Communication** - Use the acronym **CLEAR**: - **C**: Clarify. - **L**: Listen actively. - **E**: Encourage. - **A**: Appreciate. - **R**: Reassure. **Six Techniques for Active Listening** 1. Use silence appropriately. 2. Clarify unclear points. 3. Paraphrase the patient's words. 4. Reflect with emotional understanding. 5. Use non-verbal cues (RELATES: Relax, Eye contact, Lean forward, etc.). 6. Summarize key points at the end. **Non-Verbal Communication** - Includes gestures, posture, eye contact, facial expressions, and use of space. - Importance: Reinforces, regulates, or may replace verbal messages. **Benefits of Good Communication Skills** - Improves patient satisfaction and compliance. - Reduces errors and litigation. - Enhances health outcomes (e.g., better BP control, headache resolution). **Obstacles to Communication** 1. Sender issues (unclear messages, inappropriate tone). 2. Message problems (confusing or irrelevant content). 3. Channel issues (inaccessible medium). 4. Receiver issues (poor listening, lack of interest). 5. Environmental factors (noise, distractions). **Doctor-Patient Relationship** - Built on trust, good communication, and shared goals. - Objectives: - Identify reasons for consultation. - Achieve therapeutic outcomes. - Strengthen doctor-patient bond. **Tips During History Taking** - Use open-ended questions. - Avoid interrupting or rushing the patient. - Show interest with good eye contact and active listening. **During Examination** - Wash hands and explain actions. - Ask permission before touching. - Respect patient privacy and comfort.