Effective communication is vital in rehabilitation and can be used to educate and empower patients about the health issues they present with.

Importance of Good Communication

1. Reduces negative emotions (eg. Fear, anxiety) and improves positive ones (eg. Hope, self-worth)
2. Improves clinician-patient agreement, motivation to adhere, self-management skills, satisfaction with care and trust in the clinician.

The following core communication skills and tips can be considered:

1. Create a private and relaxed space for the person devoid of noise and interruptions if possible. Talk to the person alone first and seek their consent before allowing carers into the space. If the person is a female, ask for a chaperon. Ask for permission before invading the person’s personal space.
2. Involve the person and their carers or family (with their consent) in everything surrounding assessment and management.
3. Be attentive and actively listen to the person, looking at them as they speak.
4. Use clear, simple concise language as well as lay terms instead of medical terms to improve understanding. Allow the person to ask questions about the information provided
5. Be respectful and do not judge the person by appearance or behaviour.
6. Show extra sensitivity when people talk about difficult experiences (eg. Sexual assault, violence or self-harm). Assure the person of confidentiality.