[Sharon]

From the activities above: Complete the “How good are your communication skills?” questionnaire and post what you learned about your communication skills and what strategies will you use to enhance your communication. If you are an excellent communicator, describe an important factor about receiving messages (listening) .

[Kirandip]

When considering the patient population characteristic statement of “If a patient is considered complex, they will also be acutely ill”, I answered false. This is because, though a patient may be deemed “complex” (i.e. have multiple co-morbidities and high care needs), this does not automatically equate to the patient also being “acutely ill” as the acutely refers to the patient developing a new illness (i.e. develops a high systemic fever).

[Samantha]

When thinking about effective strategies for excellent communication the following items come to mind:
> articulate a clear message- be strategic about the messaging that is important. What is the key message to be recieved and understood by the people receiving it?
>be open to feedback and different suggestions- perhaps there is something that you have not considered and when you share the messaging, an item/idea/concern may be brought forward, be open to hearing and reflecting on this.
>be aware of your body language- the words/messaging being communicated must be matched by our body language.
>Ask questions- people involved (stakeholders) or impacted by possible changes need to be heard and feel open to ask questions. Perhaps the message that is trying to be shared will need to be re-worded to be more effective in communicating the messaging.

[Megan]

When thinking about proper communication, I always have a general conversation with the patient before I am discussing other medical issues to understand their level of understanding, their fears, wishes, and concerns. I ask the patient questions, if they understand what I have been explaining to them or if they feel like I should explain in more detail. Always make sure I have enough time to give to the patient too. I don’t want them to seem like I am rushing them or rushing the conversation. I always keep in mind of my body language in front of the client, to make sure I am calm and my communication is clear towards them and their family, if involved.

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