Patient Care and Communication in Healthcare

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to patient encounters, communication, and care protocols essential for healthcare professionals.

Role of the RT in Patient Assessment

The role of respiratory therapists (RTs) has evolved to assist physicians in diagnostic reasoning, requiring critical thinking skills.

Patient-Centered Care

A collaborative partnership between providers, patients, and families, where patients actively participate in their own care, improving safety, communication, and compliance.

Stages of Patient-Clinician Interaction

A series of stages including chart review, introductory stage, initial assessment, treatment and monitoring, and follow-up, which guide the interaction between clinicians and patients.

Social Space

The physical distance of 4 to 12 feet from the patient, which is suitable for initial introductions.

Confidentiality

The obligation to keep all patient information private and not share it with unauthorized individuals.

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

A law passed in 1996 that enhances the ability to transfer health care information and ensures privacy and security of Protected Health Information (PHI).

Learning Needs Assessment

A process to identify and accommodate barriers to patient learning, assess learning preferences, and evaluate readiness for learning.

Barriers to Patient Learning

Factors such as age, pain, anxiety, physical limitations, low education level, and cultural differences that may hinder a patient's ability to learn.

S.M.A.R.T. Goals

An acronym for goals that are Specific, Measurable, Action-oriented, Realistic, and Time-limited to assist in patient care planning.

Interprofessional Communication

The practice of using active listening and clear communication among healthcare professionals to decrease errors and improve patient safety.