Therapeutic Communication and Patient Care Principles

Therapeutic Communication Principles

• Understanding therapeutic communication principles is crucial for effective patient interaction.

• Encouraging patient expression:

  • Reflect patient statements back to promote further communication.

  • Make observations to recognize positive changes in the patient.

Building Relationships & Accessibility

• Medical assistants play a key role in nurturing relationships with healthcare staff and patients.

• Accessibility for Patients with Disabilities (ADA Compliance):

  • Medical facilities must ensure access for patients using wheelchairs or assistive devices.

  • Important features include:

  • Designated parking spaces.

  • Ramps and accessible bathrooms (large stalls and handrails).

  • Organization strategies for patient comfort:

  • Create clear pathways for wheelchair navigation.

  • Avoid obstacles like area rugs.

Organizational Strategies

• Design office layout for easy movement:

  • Ensure gaps for safe wheelchair access between chairs and walls.

  • Eliminate metal or wooden barriers in doorways, replacing with rubber coverings.

  • Ensure reading materials are reachable for wheelchair users.

  • Install sturdy railings for support along walls.

Communication with Patients with Special Needs

• Vision Loss:

  • Provide large print materials and rail signs.

  • Use descriptive language; alert before touching.

• Hearing Loss:

  • Offer services like online appointment scheduling.

  • Position yourself to be seen when speaking.

  • Use clear speech without shouting. Consider providing sign language interpreters as required by law.

Interaction with Service Animals

• Service animals are not pets; ensure they are treated with respect and not distracted during their duties.

• Intervene when necessary to educate others about the role of the service animal.

Handling Disabilities & Emotional Communication

• Be sensitive when addressing patients with disabilities:

  • Avoid inappropriate questions about their condition.

  • Instead of asking, "How did that happen?" ask, "What can I do to assist?"

• Focus on the patient's needs:

  • Inquire about necessary accommodations without making assumptions.

Supporting Patients with Developmental Delays

• Understand the communication style and capabilities of the patient.

• Engage family members or caregivers for assistance but prioritize patient interaction.

• Maintain calm demeanor, speak clearly, and ask for clarification when needed.

Supporting Patients with Chronic or Terminal Illnesses

• Approach these patients with empathy and kindness:

  • Avoid overly cheery greetings that may provoke defensive responses.

  • Respect their dignity and emotional state.

• Facilitate conversations by setting a supportive tone:

  • Use broad questions like, "What would you like to talk about today?"

• Ensure they have access to necessary support services (e.g., hospice, meal delivery, home health assistance).

• Reinforce the importance of community and support groups in their care plan.