When you are in a caregiver position, it is important to facilitate clear communication with your patients. Whether you are discussing long-term care options, hospice care, or treatment plans, everyone must be open and honest. However, health issues are notoriously hard to deal with, and many patients find themselves struggling. How can you smooth things over and ensure good communication?
Be Honest
When you are in the care giving position, you are seen as someone with authority. It is important that you are upfront and honest. Be clear about what you know and don’t know, and let them know when they can expect answer. While there are good ways to communicate bad news, it’s important not to sugarcoat serious health problems or make it seem like it isn’t a big deal when it reality it is.
Do Not Overwhelm
Remember that people do not always need the most scientific names or the most technical descriptions. Sometimes, the best explanation is the simplest one. Be ready to explain what is going on in the most plain terms possible. This helps you stay on track with treatments.
Repeat As Necessary
Sometimes, patients dealing with serious health issues have lots of questions, and some of those questions are going to be the same ones over and over and over again. Be patient with them. They are scared, and sometimes they really do not understand. If they did not understand after you explained one way, try explaining again in a different way.
Explain Why It Is Important to Be Clear
So many people spend their lives dodging around the obvious and refusing to think about darker matters. When it comes to serious health concerns, they no longer have a choice. Be firm, but be very plain about what is going on and what the risks are. It is believed that informed patients will always do the best, no matter what their issues are.
Tell Them It Is Okay Not to Know
Sometimes, patients don’t know what is going in their own heads. They do not know why they are upset or afraid, they may be concerned that they do not know what is happening or what their treatment entails, and this in turn will make them very upset. It is okay for them not to know.
Remind Them That This Is Normal
While you should never state that someone has it worse, remind them that what they are going through is normal. Other people have gone through what they are going through. Suggest support groups that can help. Feeling as if they are not alone can be very helpful.
When you are providing care for people who are having serious issues, help them talk about what they are going through, and how they can move forward. Join a network with other health professionals to better benefit patients. Informational credit to Nueterra.
