A visual illustration serves as a great communication aid by allowing providers to show how the strain of high blood pressure can cause build up in the coronary arteries. Illustrations and visuals can improve the communication of treatment options to patients, and providers should allow the patient plenty of opportunity to ask questions and discuss the pros and cons of the options.įor example, telling a patient they have high blood pressure may not clearly relay the potential risks or how other organs may be impacted. Begin by presenting the recommended treatment options and all pros and cons, followed by alternative options and each of their risks and benefits. Once the diagnosis is clearly communicated, the provider should offer the treatment option(s) and explain the risks and benefits of each option. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention developed a plain-language thesaurus to find replacement words that patients will better understand. Instead, use plain language when speaking to patients. When communicating a diagnosis, avoid medical terminology. The more information gathered, the more accurate the diagnosis. To get a better sense of severity, ask how these symptoms have impacted their day-to-day life.
This includes questions on timing, severity, onset of symptoms, changes over time, etc. Providers should develop a patient engagement process that fosters communication with the patient to reveal an accurate medical history.įor example, ask for a detailed explanation of the symptoms they’re experiencing to ensure that the patient understands what information is relevant. Proper diagnosis requires the patient to provide an accurate family history, current medications and all medical information deemed relevant. These recommendations are acknowledged to increase engagement, improve communication and reduce risk for diagnostic error. The three questions and recommendations below explain how providers can successfully communicate with their patients to garner the most meaningful responses. To support improved communication and thus improved patient outcomes, the National Patient Safety Foundation developed the “Ask Me 3” educational program to encourage providers to get answers from patients and family members to three specific questions during a visit.
0 kommentar(er)
