Educating Patients: Creating Teaching Moments in Practice
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Communication barriers Multiple factors can determine whether communication is successful. The barriers and limitations discussed above affect com- munication, and there are other consider- ations as well. One of the most frequently seen communication barriers in healthcare is that of a difference in primary or native language. Many communication materials and explanations are in English. However, many patients have limited English profi - ciency. Even patients who understand En- glish may learn best in another language. It is important to ask patients what their pre- ferred language is for learning (Schouten et al., 2020; Sethi & Rani, 2017). How the person who is teaching com- municates can also create communication barriers. In addition, there are differenc- es in linguistics within the communica- tion itself, which can be a barrier if the learner does not understand. The style and speed in which people communicate can vary. Tone and syntax (structure and grammar) can also affect communication. Semantics (word meaning) and pragmat- ics (context) can impair communication. Also within healthcare communications are colloquialisms (use of jargon) and lexis (similar sounding words), which can create ineffective communication (Gut- tman et al., 2021). Nonverbal behaviors can negatively affect communications. An example is if a patient feels a healthcare professional is too busy, rushed, or impa- tient. And rapport between the health- care professional and the patient will also determine if communication is effective (Maryniak, 2019; Sethi & Rani, 2017).
above, is one example. Physical limita- tions can also exist, such as pain or fa- tigue from illness or procedures. Limited mobility may impact the ability for return demonstrations. Sensory impairment such as vision or hearing loss may be a limitation for following or comprehend- ing communication. Conditions that alter cognition, recognition, focus, concen- tration, and/or memory will also affect teaching and learning. Emotional limita- tions may include resistance to change, self-confidence, unrealistic goals, lack of motivation, or procrastination. Difficulties in communication or language barriers may also limit the patient’s ability to un- derstand and learn (Bastable, 2021; Var- min et al., 2015). Environmental considerations The environment of the patient is anoth- er important consideration that can affect communications. A new or rapidly chang- ing environment may be comfortable for the healthcare professional, but it is not for the patient and family. A healthcare environment can be considered scary or friendly to a patient, depending on their perception. Noise, lights, distractions, and even temperature can negatively im- pact communications (Maryniak, 2019). | HEALTHCARE CONSIDERATION Potential limitations to learning should be identified prior to teaching. Strategies that involve considerations to address these limitations must be utilized so that teaching can be as ef- fective as possible. However, it may not be realistic to overcome all factors that can create limitations to learning.
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