Communication

Introduction

Two healthcare workers in an office both reading charts and talking on phones Communication is the fiber that binds quality healthcare in the workplace. Continuity of care depends on many communication elements and can also be hindered secondary to how the communication is delivered. Has someone ever told you one thing but their body language delivered a totally opposite message? Non-verbal communication of this nature can pose a barrier to caring for individuals and families. Medical terminology is a professional language used to communicate within the healthcare field. This terminology is fun, challenging, and rewarding when you understand the meaning.

In this module, we will explore these areas as well as the ethical and legal aspects associated with methods of communication.

Essential Questions

What is the difference between verbal and non-verbal communication?
How can communication barriers be identified?
How is subjective and objective information reported?
How are the elements of communication defined using a sender-receiver model?
What are active listening skills?
What elements must be considered for effective written and electronic communication?
How are roots, prefixes, and suffixes used to communicate information in healthcare?
Why is it important to utilize current and acceptable medical abbreviations and terminology within the electronic medical record and other forms of medical communication?
What are the legal and ethical implications of electronic communications?
Why is it important to work independently and be a team player?
Why is it an important quality to listen and follow directions at the workplace?

Module Minute

Image of a clock face as an icon with the words The Module Minute The communication process occurs in several steps as outlined in the sender-receiver model. Healthcare employees communicate in various ways including spoken verbally and transcribed in a written format. Body language contributes to how the receiver interprets information and can form a barrier or block in the communication process. Active listening, message interpretation, and professional feedback contribute to an effective communication process. Medical terminology, when used appropriately, decreases documentation time while maintaining quality communication. Continuity of care depends on the actions and responses of each team member and decreases legal and ethical compromise.

Keywords

Please review the following terms.

Communication - the process of exchanging information and ideas
Subjective information - reported by the subject or person, opinions based on feelings
Objective information - represents facts; diagnostic test results
Medical terminology - the body of abbreviations and words used to describe medical events
Biases - prejudices for or against one thing, person, or group when compared to another
Prejudices - a form of judgment against an issue or person without supporting information
Gestures - considered body language, motions, and movements that express emotions
Continuity - the unbroken and consistent existence or operation of something over time

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