Making a connection with a patient, no matter how small, is always a valuable use of your time. Even short, positive interactions can help you communicate more effectively, improve their quality of care, and make your job easier and more enjoyable.
Here are three tips for building rapport quickly with patients. Every patient is different, but you can adapt these strategies to fit each individual’s needs and preferences.
1. Show empathy.
Being a patient can be stressful, scary, and confusing at times. Encourage them to express their concerns and ask questions openly, and validate their fears, desires, and feelings. Emphasize teamwork, making it clear that patients are active participants in their own care.
Practice being an empathetic and active listener. Give patients your full attention, making eye contact and using verbal and non-verbal cues to show you’re taking in what they’re saying. Use phrases like, “What I hear you saying is…” and “Tell me if I have this right…” to summarize what they’ve said and ask for clarification.
2. Get to know them on a personal level.
Make an effort to get to know your patients as people, not just charts. Start with a warm introduction and a bit of small talk to make them feel more at ease. Ask open-ended questions about their family, friends, interests, and hobbies. Where are they from? What do they enjoy doing in their free time? What post-op meal are they looking forward to?
Try to remember small things from your conversation for the next time you see them. Showing an interest in who they are outside of a clinical setting is a fast way to create a positive connection.
3. Use plain, easy-to-understand language.
Using too much medical jargon can get in the way of your relationship with patients. Lengthy textbook explanations may cause them to feel intimidated or annoyed, or to tune out entirely. Instead, use clear, uncomplicated language. Explain things like procedures, side effects, medications, risks, and care plans in laymen’s terms, and providing space for them to ask follow-up questions. Take the time to describe unfamiliar terms, and provide reassurance whenever possible.
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