"It all starts with a big smile
and good solid handshake," explains an Ottawa GP. "I'm
not naturally jovial, but I've found that being a bit
friendlier and a bit more open has meant I don't have
to do as much digging to get patients to tell me what's
wrong." This doctor's patients love him, saying he's
sincere and concerned and gives them his undivided attention.
But his consultations typically last less than eight
minutes. Try this doctor's 10 non-verbal tricks and
watch your patient visits speed by.
1. Smile Smile at your patient
when they arrive to immediately set a friendly tone,
and also when they leave. Even if you just gave them
some bad news, this will show you're pulling for them
2. Niceties Shaking hands
and the briefest of small talk are great for breaking
the ice in the exam room too
3. Eye contact Looking your
patient in the eye while talking or listening is probably
the most important non-verbal cue you can give to show
you're interested. Avoid shuffling through charts and
papers while one of you is talking
4. Take a seat Beginning
a consultation while either you or the patient is standing
just screams "I'm in a mad rush"
5. Face off Make sure you're
facing your patient, preferably without a barrier such
as your desk between you
6. Open up Simply having
an open posture can make patients feel more at ease
— don't cross your arms or legs, and lean towards
them to show you're interested
7. Get closer Arrange your
office so there's no more than a metre between you and
your patient — physical closeness helps foster
confidence
8. Observe Patients often
have a hard time expressing themselves. Watch for cues
like wringing hands, slouching, fidgeting — any
of these signs could help you direct your questions
9. Watch those tics Make
sure your mannerisms aren't distracting or off-putting.
Checking your watch out of habit, tapping your foot,
slouching or sighing will all make your patient feel
unwelcome or rushed
10. Doorknob trick If all
your verbal and non-verbal efforts have failed to pry
the relevant information out of your patient, a last
ditch trick is to feign reaching for the door. It's
amazing how much people open up when they face the prospect
of being sent on their way.
|
