Goals:

• Make information easier for your patient to remember and understand

Keep this old adage related to lecturing in mind: Say what you are going to say, say it, and then say what you have said

Organize your explanation

• Divide your explanation into discrete sections
• Develop a logical sequence and explain this to your patient

‘There are three important things I’d like to explain. First, I’d like to tell you what I think is going on; second, what test I think we should do; and third, what the treatment might look like’

Use explicit categorisation or signposting

• Categorization
  • Forewarn your patient about what categories of information are to be provided and then present information category by category
• Signposting
  • Explain where the interview might go next and why
  • Signpost before important pieces of information

‘There are three important things that I would like to discuss. First… Now, let’s move on to…’

Use repetition and summarization to reinforce information

 Use concise, easily understood language

• Patients rarely asking for clarification for fear of appearing less intelligent
• Avoid or explain jargon
• Give specific advice rather (lose 30 pounds) rather than general advice (lose weight)

Use visual methods of conveying information

• Diagrams, models, written information/instructions

Check for your patient’s understanding of the information you’ve given and plans you’ve made

• Ask your patient to restate in their own words
• Clarify as necessary

Exercise: Asking your patient to restate what they’ve heard and understood can be tricky. It all depends on the phrasing and tone of voice. Avoid sounding patronizing. Practice this by roleplaying.

‘I know I’ve given you a lot of information tofay and I’m concerned that I might not have been very clear. It would help me if you could repeated back to me ‘

Silverman, J., Kurtz, S., & Draper, J. (2013). Skills for Communicating with Patients (Thrid Edit). London: Radcliffe Publishing.