Hcs/320 Communication Opinion Research Paper

Communication Opinion
Michele Frizzell
HCS/320
June 30, 2014
Kevin Mohler

Communication Opinion Imagine a world with no communication. No way to express feelings of anger or joy, no longer waving goodbye as someone leaves, communicating via email, text or pen never existed. The mere thought is absurd. Communicating is key to success in most any situation, whether it is in the work place, personal life or everyday tasks. The basic elements of communication and how they differ from the basic rules of healthcare communication are covered in this paper. Cultural differences and how they influence communication, as well as how healthcare providers might encourage their patients to be more open and honest about their health
Many times an individual is embarrassed to revel symptoms or past medical history in fear they might be rejected or judged. The thought of another patient getting a glimpse of their medical chart is reason to withhold information or perhaps the medication prescribed makes them feel strange or sick? No matter their reasoning, holding back pertinent information could be costly and in worst cases deadly. There are a plethora of ways healthcare providers can ease the minds of individuals and ensure the line of communication between them stays open and honest. Patients want to believe their healthcare provider truly cares for their well-being. Verbal and non-verbal communication helps providers express interest and concerns to patients. Making eye contact, listening and questioning with thought, demonstrating understanding and compassion are examples of verbal and non-verbal communication. Bridging any social gap that may be present will help establish open communication between provider and patient. Viewing the relationship as a partnership in which each party contributes to maximize the outcome is an essential element in provider/patient relationships. The choice of words a provider uses can affect the line of communication between them and their patients a great deal. If an individual has no knowledge of the medical terms a physician is using they may become embarrassed by it and not ask the proper questions
The sender initiates the communication. Verbal and non-verbal techniques are used to properly convey the message and the sender should have an understanding of who is receiving the message. The party in which the sender is transmitting communication is the receiver. To correctly absorb the message the receiver should listen carefully and not get distracted. The medium is most important of the five elements. It can come in many different forms and is what the receiver is trying to communicate to the receiver. The channel is how the communication is being sent, whether it is mail, text, email or oral. Finally, the feedback describes the receiver’s response or reaction to the sender’s message. Feedback may come from asking questions, body language or facial expressions.
Health care communication differs from basic communication because patient care becomes a factor. Peoples confidentially and concerns need to be taken into consideration. How the individual receives and interprets messages and information. The family member’s reaction is important as well. Co-workers need to make sure they are not open with private information.
In conclusion, culture differences can be bridged in communication if the sender and receiver are aware of how each party communicates. Showing concern and interest in patients will help providers receive correct information and keep