Patient Interaction Flashcards
What are the qualities needed to be a caring radiologic and imaging sciences professional?
Empathy, self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, social skills
According to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, what do patients often experience?
Patients are often at the lower levels of Maslow’s hierarchy, striving from basic physiological needs toward self-actualization.
What is a key difference between inpatients and outpatients?
Inpatients are admitted for 24 hours or longer, while outpatients do not occupy a bed overnight.
What are common fears patients have when visiting a medical imaging department?
- Fear of the unknown
- Fear of loss of control
- Fear of possible pain and discomfort
- Apprehension about exam results
What is emotional intelligence in the context of patient interaction?
Emotional intelligence includes self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills.
What approach should be taken during initial patient interaction?
- Use their name
- Confirm identity
- Introduce yourself
- Explain the procedure in understandable terms
- Obtain a brief relevant history
Informed consent should be obtained if required.
What types of patients may require special communication considerations?
- Seriously ill and traumatized patients
- Cancer patients
- COVID patients
- Visually impaired patients
- Speech- and hearing-impaired patients
- Non–English-speaking patients
- Mentally impaired patients
- Substance abusers
What are the three common forms of touch used by radiologic technologists?
- Emotional support
- Emphasis
- Palpation
How should communication strategies be adapted for pediatric patients?
- Come down to their eye level
- Talk softly
- Soften room lighting
- Avoid loud equipment movements
- Maintain eye contact
Gentle touch and showing radiation protection methods can also help.
What are the physical changes associated with primary and secondary aging?
- Slowing psychomotor responses
- Decreased visual acuity
- Loss of skin elasticity
- Decreased muscle strength
- Loss of appetite
What are the five stages of the grieving process?
- Denial and isolation
- Anger
- Bargaining
- Depression
- Acceptance
True or False: Communication skills are essential to good medical imaging.
True
Good communication increases the likelihood of exam success and accommodates the uniqueness of each patient.
Fill in the blank: Patients enter the health care setting feeling _______.
[vulnerable]
Recognizing this vulnerability allows medical professionals to act with compassion.
What should be considered when communicating with older patients?
- Maintain eye contact
- Speak clearly and more slowly
- Ask permission to touch
- Treat them with respect and patience
How can healthcare professionals demonstrate empathy during patient interactions?
By showing understanding, compassion, and respect for the patient’s feelings and situation.
