Communication Skills Flashcards

Which element of communication is considered the 'channel'?

Answer: The medium used to transmit the message, such as speaking or writing

The channel is the method or medium through which a message is transmitted, such as face-to-face speech, phone, or written notes.

A patient tells you they feel their provider never listens to them. This is an example of a breakdown in:

Answer: Feedback and rapport

When patients feel unheard, the feedback loop is broken and therapeutic rapport is damaged, undermining effective communication.

Assertive communication in healthcare means:

Answer: Expressing your needs and opinions clearly while respecting others

Assertive communication balances self-expression with respect for others, enabling clear, honest, and constructive interactions.

During patient education, which strategy BEST ensures retention of health information?

Answer: Break information into small chunks and use multiple formats such as visuals and handouts

Using chunked information and multiple modalities accommodates different learning styles and improves retention.

When a patient asks a question you are not sure how to answer, the BEST response is to:

Answer: Acknowledge that you don't know and tell the patient you will find the correct information

Admitting uncertainty and committing to follow-up maintains patient trust and prevents the spread of incorrect health information.

Cultural competence in communication requires a healthcare worker to:

Answer: Recognize and respect how culture influences a patient's health beliefs and communication style

Culturally competent care acknowledges that cultural backgrounds shape how patients perceive illness, make decisions, and communicate.

Which action by a healthcare worker would MOST undermine patient trust?

Answer: Promising a patient an outcome that cannot be guaranteed

Making promises about outcomes beyond your control sets unrealistic expectations and damages trust when those promises are not fulfilled.