what did you learn from nursing home work experience
For the past 9 months I have developed crucial communication skills whilst volunteering in a care home
- more considerate and be aware of the difficulties some people face
- highlights the complex clinical and social needs of our increasing elderly population
- by listening to patients, I witnessed the vast ways in which an illness can impact someone
- chatting with them developed my patience and ability to empathise - encouraging me to consider individual needs
- I felt I made a real difference to their quality of life; just lending an empathetic ear to their problems and reaching out in a caring manner
- speaking to relatives, residents and staff improved my interpersonal skills so that I can comfortably communicate with people of diverse ages, cultures and background
Why is communication important in medicine
Doctors need to communicate clearly and sensitively with the patients and their relatives, as well as the MDT
They need to show warmth and be supportive and caring
Doctors should be able to adapt their communicaation to their audience
Use clear and unambiguous language
This means the patients knows exactly what’s going on
Know how/when to use medicine
Patient will trust them more and open up if they can communicate empathetically
Uk is very diverse, need to communicate to those with a language barrier
What is holistic medicine
Means that you treat people as a whole.
Looking after physical, psychological and spiritual issues
In my work experience I saw an interaction with a patient who wanted a hip op - couldn’t work for a bit
Doctor took a holistic approach: considered psychological impact. Also had to consider the financial, social and the impact on family members, she felt very reassured
