All staff should be aware of the factors which contribute
to, or prevent, effective communication
.
2
Consideration needs to be given to means of ensuring
that all staff are trained to communicate effectively
with patients- whether by a communication skills component
in induction or ongoing training and/or by an information
campaign.
3
Nursing staff should explain to
each patient, as a matter of routine, that a 'named
nurse' has been designated to her/his care.
4
Where patients are given diagnoses, medical and nursing
staff should verify that patients understand the information
they are given at the time it is given.
5
Staff should endeavour to better inform patients
about planned tests, procedures and treatment.
6
Staff should ensure that patients are made aware
of the potential side-effects of new medications.
7
On discharge, nursing staff shouldinform patients if follow-up arrangements have
been made.
8
Nursing staff should ensure that
patients discharged home are told who to contact if
they experience any complications or if their conditions
worsen.
9
Patients in general, and older patients in particular,
should be encouraged to become involved in decision-making
around their treatment and care.
10
Information given to patients should be communicated
both verbally and in writing, where appropriate.
11
Possible standards for effective staff-inpatient
communication are listed in Chapter Ten and it is
suggested that these be adopted throughout the Trust.
12
Action is needed by the
Trust in relation to the other issues where patients
expressed concerns: mixed-sex wards; male workers providing
care to female patients; moving patients to other beds
or wards; basic care provision; handling of death on
the wards and witnessing abusive or violent incidents.
