Communication 3

Question 1

Blocks to therapeutic communication

Answer 1

Factors that destroy the possibility of creating a therapeutic atmosphere in communication

Question 2

Examples of blocks to therapeutic communication.

Answer 2

• Rapid speech
• Complex medical terminology
• Distracting environments-noisy waiting rooms
• Use of non-therapeutic communication techniquesCont’d
• Dress code may affect therapeutic communication
• Attitude and bad mannerism
• Unhealthy environment (examination room, machine)
• Judgmental statements
• False reassurance
• Defending
• Changing subject
• Giving advice
• Subjective interpretation
• Disagreeing
• Probing
• Demanding an explanation

Question 4

False reassurance

Answer 4

To the patient who expresses fear or anxiety by making a comment
such as ”Now don’t you worry. Everything will be fine

Question 5

• Judgmental statement

Answer 5

Place a patient in the position of feeling that he/she must gain the approval of the HCW in order to receive care. Avoid making
sweeping statement
eg statement like “that’s good “or “that’s bad”

Question 6

Defending

Answer 6

Rejects the patient’s opinion & prevents the patient from continuing to communicate eg
Patient:
“I am not sure Dr Deus, knows what to do with me”
Radiographer
“Dr Deus is an experienced Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS), and he has taken care of many people with
problems just like yours.

Question 7

Changing the subject

Answer 7

Changing the subject while the patient is speaking is a non-verbal means of informing the patient that what he/she is saying is not
important

Question 8

Giving advice

Answer 8

Avoid giving advice. Listen to what the patient is saying. Do not rush
into offering a piece of advice, the patient may stop the conversation