Text B. Communication Skills

Many doctors come into contact with children, so it is important that doctors have the necessary communication skills to interact effectively with them. Doctors need to be aware of differences between adult and child patients and to bear these differences in mind during the consultation. By doing so, doctors will have a better chance of gaining trust from a child and getting their co-operation.

Engaging in some small talk with a child, such as paying them a compliment or checking that they are comfortable, are important points for a doctor to remember.

As the interview progresses, it is important for a doctor to acknowledge a child’s feelings, to show empathy, and to ask a child for a permission before examining them. Visiting the doctor’s can be a daunting experience for a child so it is necessary that a doctor can minimize any negative perceptions the child may have, by providing reassurance throughout the interview.

Doctors need to be aware that even very minor procedures can make a child uneasy, so it is important for doctors to explain procedures in simple language and to give clear instructions in order to gain child’s co-operation.

It is necessary for doctors to show a child that they are actively listening to any concerns they may have and to respond appropriately. Doctors should avoid putting words in the patient’s mouth or being judgemental; instead they should elicit how a child feels and why, and show support.

3. Match the topics with the information in Text I:

1. establishing initial rapport with a child;

2. developing rapport with a child;

3. reassuring a child;

4. explaining procedures to a child;

5. responding to a child’s verbal cues.

4. Read the quotation from A. Speirs and answer the following questions:

“In paediatric consultations, communication takes a triangular form, involving the doctor, the child and the parent, each giving and receiving information, each observing and being observed” (“Talking to Children” Speirs, 1996).

1. Can a doctor put a child at ease if he directs the conversation at the parent?

2. Write down two things to make a child comfortable. This can include aspects both verbal and non-verbal communication.

Model: ∙ Say hello to the child and call him/her by name.

∙ Smile at the child.

3. Share your answer in a group. Make up a list.