The interaction between the patient and the health care provider plays a vital role in getting and giving medical help. After all, it determines the patient’s satisfaction, understanding of the problem and mental state. The impression after the interaction can affect the patient’s mood and the treatment process.
One incident I have had as a child illustrated the importance of having the right attitude toward the person who trusts the health care provider and expects to get help. When I had to remove the molar at the age of 7, the nurse and the doctor acted negligently and caused me a string of pain while doing anesthesia. When I started crying, they said that I was overreacting. After that, there was no attempt to comfort me, and they completely ignored my sobbings while we waited for anesthesia to work.
Some concepts can improve communication between the patient and a health care provider, for example, patronizing behavior and blocking. Patronizing behavior can comfort people due to the gentle and easy talk like a mother with a child. Although not everyone enjoys that kind of approach, according to du Pré (2021), some people find it inappropriate. Thus, caregivers should be careful when they decide to interact with the patient in that manner.
In addition, the concept of blocking could be helpful to distract the patient from the concerns and anxiety connected to the doctor’s appointment. When the person switches on the other subject, he stops concentrating on their fears and complaints. His condition becomes more stable, and he avoids the emotional disclosure affected by panic or negatives experiences.
This case illustrates how a caregiver should not treat the patient: otherwise, the professional in the current situation could use patronizing behavior. Although not all people prefer that communication concept, it can perfectly work for the scared and upset child. Talking down, comforting and using simple words might help the child relax and handle the procedure more easily.
In my case were no attempts to communicate with me. Consequently, it has lead to the fear of the dentists. The proper connection and the right amount of empathy would switch the mood and help to concentrate on other things.
In conclusion, communication is the key to everything, especially when it comes to such delicate topics as health care. The caregiver’s main task is to find the right approach to the patient and leave him with a positive impression after all.
Reference
du Pré, A. & Cook Overton, B. (2021). Communication about Health: Current Issues and perspectives. (6th Ed.). New York: Oxford University Press.