Online CPR Certification Blog

Some of the medics we have in our medical institutions use complicated terms when communicating to their patients, and in most of the times when they only need to pass simple information across. For better understanding of the medical situation, the issue at hand is supposed to be relayed to the patient in a manner that he or she fully understands what the problem is, and what solution the physician is offering.

To understand this better, we look at the case of Alan Alda, who is a program host on PBS stations. He once had an intestinal blockage while in the line of duty, and when the physician examined Alda, he told him that he would get rid of the involved section of the intestine. Because he could not understand the need for the surgery, he insisted on knowing why the physician had come to that conclusion. That is when he was told that there was the need to remove the bad part and then join the intestine ends again. That did make sense to Alda.

If medical cases are not explained well to the involved patients, it can be hard for them to understand and cooperate when the medical procedure starts. Physicians should always try to make communication easy, and this can be easy when the following guidelines are followed.

Simplify Your Statement

Before you talk to your patient about his or her condition, and what you will do through the treatment procedure, think and plan how you will simplify the terms that may confuse the patient. Avoid complex anatomical terms. Most people do not comprehend the medical terms used in hospitals.

Use Hand Gestures When You Don’t Have Diagrams

When explaining about body organs and their functionalities, a diagram may be required and in some cases, you as a physician will not have the diagram. In that case, you will need to use gestures and try to make the patient understand.

Ask Questions To See If Your Explanation Is Understood

Before you proceed with the medical procedure, you will need to know if your patient has understood what the problem is, and the steps that you are going to follow to tackle it. How he or she will answer the questions you ask will be enough to tell you if both of you are coordinating perfectly. You can always repeat your explanation in a more simplified way if you find any misunderstandings.

Visual Prompts Will A Great Assistance

Visuals that show the human anatomy will assist the patient to guide you through the areas that may be bothering him or her, and in that case, you will have an easy time diagnosing the ailment.

Good and clear communication will go a long way past the treatment that you will provide. The patient will understand the body system better and even try to do personal checkups before they decide to go to the hospital. Regular checkups will mean improved health, which is what everybody wants.