Overview

To get the best results that a patient can achieve, communication, demonstration and coaching are key. Simple consistent language should be used, but can be tailored to what you think the patient will best understand. When there is a language or other barrier to communication, e.g. patient may be hard of hearing, demonstrations can help as can interpreters. As with anything, practise makes perfect, so remember that although the patient needs practise with their technique, you can also practise what works well when communicating and coaching what they need to do. This module is designed to give an overview of various communication and coaching approaches for different scenarios.

Aims

1. To illustrate different styles of communication and the possible outcome on results.
2. To evaluate coaching techniques to enable getting the best results from your patient.

Pre-appointment communication

• Keep it simple and concise - one page of A4 maximum.
• Keep it relevant
• Outline expectations
• Provide details on what to do and what not to do prior to the appointment as per ATS/ERS 2019

Communication checklist

• Keep it simple and concise.
• Use demonstrations and visual cues
• Tailor to the needs of the patient
• Consider any language or other communication barriers
• Advise on use of see through masks for those who lip read or for improved communication
• Schedule an affiliated translator for the patient if needed.

Coaching check list

• Use simple words throughout the test
• Be assertive and directive
• Encourage throughout the whole manoeuvre
• Be kind when correcting the manoeuvre. State clearly what went well and what needs to be corrected.
• Observe the patient throughout the test and be alert to the non-verbal signs that the patient is making.
• Most often the patient will stop sooner than what is required for the test.
• Show empathy and make the patient feel heard.
• Offer tips on how they could achieve what's required for the test utilising different modifications to the technique.