Question

1. List four reasons why it is essential to properly interpret the nonverbal communication displayed by patients. Describe how you would accomplish each in the clinical setting.

Answer 1

Non verbal communication plays an integral part in the communication between the patient and health care givers. Non verbal communication is anything other than oral or verbal communication. It involves touch, gestures, gaze or look etc. Most of the times it is essential to properly interpret the non verbal communication because:

1) It generates trust and confidence among the patients when we try to understand what they want to convey.

2)It also helps in understanding any deviation from the normal behavior for example in stroke patient may not be able to convey normally.

3)It helps to gain the confidence of the patient and maintain good rapport with the patient.

4)In some cases non verbal communication is very important in dealing with patients with mental health changes.

Ways to accomplish them:

1)The willingness to listen to the patient and trying to understand ensures that you care for the patient. This can be done by listening enthusiastically and nodding while listening.

2)Sudden changes in behavior unable to communicate or trying hard to communicate can imply abnormality.eg confusion.

3) Ensuring similar wavelengths in communication with the patient will help you to understand whether they acknowledge you.

4)It is extremely important to understand the mixed communication by these patients it would be easy to understand their needs