Reading material on improving patient communication, cross-cultural aspect

Communication between the physiotherapist and the patient is one of the most important elements of the healthcare process. In addition to providing correct information, effective physiotherapist-patient communication can be a source of encouragement and support, thus increasing the patient’s confidence, motivation and self-efficacy. A positive perception of their health status may influence their subsequent development.  

With regard to communication with paediatric patients, the promotion of appropriate communication is an essential element in creating a healthcare culture that cares for patients and their needs and puts them at the centre. Information should be provided in a clear and age-appropriate manner, enabling children and their families to become competent partners in the consultation process. 

Communication should be: 

– open and complete, in accordance with children’s needs and developmental characteristics 

– based on dignity and respect (physiotherapists listen to the patient and their cultural backgrounds, beliefs and preferences are taken into account when the health care plan is in making decisions); 

– participatory – patients and their families are encouraged to take part in the assessment and decision-making process; 

– collaborative – physiotherapists, patients and their families work together to achieve high quality medical performance and efficiency 

Table of content of the reading material (you will find this information in the e-manual) 

The psychological characteristics of the preschool years, the child’s world view to understand the psychological and cognitive development of a child of a given age. 

General information about the basic rules that determine communication with children.  

What are the difficulties in communicating with a child in health care? 

• understanding emotions affecting children’s health care 
• lack of involvement of the child 
• lack of appropriate communication methods 
• difficulties in the communication with the parents 

What can help to communicate with a child? 

• the importance of preparing the child in advance 
• the importance of creating a child-friendly environment 
• making contact, taking anamnesis and using age-appropriate communication techniques that can be used during the examination 
• the specifics of informing the child 
• involving the child in the treatment 

How to avoid common communication errors with children