ASSIGNMENT

Course Name Healthcare Communications

Module 3: Healthcare Professionals

1. Write three features, Burnout in the health professions?

Simply put, ‘burnout’ is defined in the words used by renowned

psychologist Christina Maslach, nearly four decades ago: ‘What started
out as important, meaningful and challenging work becomes unpleasant,
unfulfilling and meaningless. Energy turns into exhaustion; involvement
turns into cynicism and efficacy turns into ineffectiveness.’ Does that
ring a bell for any of my NHS colleagues? The term ‘burnout’ is often
used synonymously with stress/work-related stress, but it is a separate
health condition coded in the ICD-10 (International Statistical
Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th Revision),
resulting from continuous and long term stress exposure, particularly
related to psychosocial factors, and chronic emotional and interpersonal
job stressors. Stress and burnout are essentially different, as stress is
characterized by over-engagement, hyperactivity and loss of energy and
can lead to anxiety disorders, while burnout is characterized by
disengagement, a feeling of helplessness/hopelessness and loss of
motivation and can lead to detachment and depression. Burnout is
identified by the presence of one or more of three features:

 emotional exhaustion: a depletion of sentiments/feelings

 depersonalization: such as being detached/callous towards patients

(e.g. rather than ‘Mrs Smith developed diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) due
to insulin availability’, saying ‘Bed 9 is DKA due to non-compliance’)

 lack of personal accomplishment: a reduced sense of

achievement/satisfaction from work. As burnout is fundamentally a
work-related condition, the only guaranteed way to have no burnout
would be to not work at all.

2.Describe Communication Competence?

Communication competence has become a focus in higher education

over the past couple of decades as educational policy makers and
advocates have stressed a “back to basics” mentality (McCroskey,
1984). The ability to communicate effectively is often included as a
primary undergraduate learning goal along with other key skills like
writing, critical thinking, and problem solving.
You likely haven’t heard professors or university administrators use the
term communication competence, but as we learn more about it in this
section, I am sure you will see how communication competence can
benefit you in many aspects of your life. Since this book focuses on
communication in the real world, strategies for developing
communication competence are not only limited to this section. A
“Getting Competent” feature box is included in each chapter,
specifically to help you develop communication competence. We have
already defined communication, and you probably know that to be
competent at something means you know what you’re doing. When we
combine these terms, we get the following definition: communication
competence refers to the knowledge of effective and appropriate
communication patterns and the ability to use and adapt that knowledge
in various contexts (Cooley & Roach, 1984). To better understand this
definition, let’s break apart its components.

The first part of the definition we will unpack deals with knowledge.
The cognitive elements of competence include knowing how to do
something and understanding why things are done the way they are
(Hargie, 2011). People can develop cognitive competence by observing
and evaluating the actions of others. Cognitive competence can also be
developed through instruction. Since you are currently taking a
communication class, I encourage you to try to observe the
communication concepts you are learning in the communication
practices of others and yourself. This will help bring the concepts to life
and also help you evaluate how communication in the real world
matches up with communication concepts. As you build a repertoire of
communication knowledge based on your experiential and classroom
knowledge, you will also be developing behavioral competence.

The second part of the definition of communication competence that we

will unpack is the ability to use. Individual factors affect our ability to
do anything. Not everyone has the same athletic, musical, or intellectual
ability. At the individual level, a person’s physiological and
psychological characteristics affect competence. In terms of physiology,
age, maturity, and ability to communicate affect competence. In terms of
psychology, a person’s mood, stress level, personality, and level of
communication apprehension (level of anxiety regarding
communication) affect competence (Cooley & Roach, 1984). All these
factors will either help or hinder you when you try to apply the
knowledge you have learned to actual communication behaviors. For
example, you might know strategies for being an effective speaker, but
public speaking anxiety that kicks in when you get in front of the
audience may prevent you from fully putting that knowledge into
practice.
 The third part of the definition we will unpack is ability to adapt to
various contexts. What is competent or not varies based on social and
cultural context, which makes it impossible to have only one standard
for what counts as communication competence (Cooley & Roach, 1984).
Social variables such as status and power affect competence. In a social
situation where one person—say, a supervisor—has more power than
another—for example, his or her employee—then the supervisor is
typically the one who sets the standard for competence. Cultural
variables such as race and nationality also affect competence. A
Taiwanese woman who speaks English as her second language may be
praised for her competence in the English language in her home country
but be viewed as less competent in the United States because of her
accent. In summary, although we have a clear definition of
communication competence, there are not definitions for how to be
competent in any given situation, since competence varies at the
individual, social, and cultural level. Despite the fact that no guidelines
for or definitions of competence will be applicable in all situations, the
National Communication Association (NCA) has identified many
aspects of competence related to communication. The primary focus has
been on competencies related to speaking and listening, and the NCA
notes that developing communication competence in these areas will
help people in academic, professional, and civic contexts (Morreale,
Rubin, & Jones, 1998). To help colleges and universities develop
curriculum and instruction strategies to prepare students, the NCA has
defined what students should be able to do in terms of speaking and
listening competencies by the time they graduate from college:

1. State ideas clearly.

2. Communicate ethically.

3. Write about Burnout in the health professions?

Burnout in the health professions is a significant and pervasive issue that

affects individuals across various disciplines, from physicians and nurses
to allied health professionals and caregivers. It is characterized by
emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a reduced sense of
personal accomplishment, resulting from chronic workplace stressors.

One of the primary contributors to burnout in the health professions is

the demanding nature of the work itself. Healthcare professionals often
face long hours, high patient loads, and emotionally taxing situations, all
of which can lead to fatigue and a sense of overwhelm. Additionally, the
pressure to provide high-quality care while navigating complex
healthcare systems adds another layer of stress.
Another factor that exacerbates burnout is the lack of control and
autonomy that many healthcare professionals experience in their roles.
Decisions regarding patient care may be influenced by administrative
policies, insurance requirements, and regulatory standards, leaving little
room for individual discretion. This sense of powerlessness can lead to
feelings of frustration and disillusionment.

Furthermore, interpersonal dynamics within healthcare settings can

contribute to burnout. Conflicts with colleagues, difficult interactions
with patients and their families, and a perceived lack of support from
supervisors can all contribute to feelings of isolation and disengagement.
In professions where teamwork and collaboration are essential, strained
relationships can have a significant impact on job satisfaction and well-
being.

The consequences of burnout in the health professions are far-reaching

and can have serious implications for both individuals and the healthcare
system as a whole. Burnout is associated with increased rates of medical
errors, lower quality of patient care, and higher rates of turnover among
healthcare professionals. It can also have negative effects on physical
and mental health, leading to symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and
insomnia.
Addressing burnout in the health professions requires a multifaceted
approach that addresses both individual and systemic factors. Providing
resources for stress management, promoting work-life balance, and
offering opportunities for professional development and support can
help healthcare professionals cope with the demands of their work.
Additionally, creating a culture of open communication, mutual respect,
and teamwork can foster a sense of belonging and connection within
healthcare organizations.

Ultimately, addressing burnout in the health professions is not only

essential for the well-being of healthcare professionals but also for the
delivery of high-quality patient care. By recognizing and addressing the
factors that contribute to burnout, healthcare organizations can create
healthier work environments that support the physical, emotional, and
professional needs of their staff.
4.Elaborate Patient -centered care and Background?
Patient-centred care is an approach to healthcare that prioritizes the
individual needs, preferences, and values of patients. It represents a shift
away from traditional medical models that may focus primarily on
disease management or clinical outcomes, towards a more holistic
understanding of health that incorporates the patient's perspective into
decision-making processes.

Background: The concept of patient-centered care emerged in response

to criticisms of the traditional, paternalistic model of medicine, where
healthcare decisions were often made by healthcare providers without
sufficient consideration of patients' unique circumstances or preferences.
Patients were often treated as passive recipients of care rather than active
participants in their own health management.

In the late 20th century, healthcare researchers and practitioners began to

recognize the importance of involving patients in their own care and
considering their perspectives, values, and goals. This recognition led to
a paradigm shift in healthcare delivery, with a growing emphasis on
patient-centered approaches.
Key Principles of Patient-Centered Care:

1. Respect for Patients' Values and Preferences: Patient-centered care

starts with respecting the autonomy and dignity of patients.
Healthcare providers should engage in open and honest
communication with patients, actively listening to their concerns,
preferences, and goals, and involving them in decision-making
processes.

2. Collaboration and Shared Decision-Making: Patient-centered care

emphasizes collaboration between healthcare providers and
patients. Rather than making decisions in isolation, healthcare
providers should work together with patients to develop treatment
plans that align with the patient's values, preferences, and
circumstances. This approach involves providing patients with
information about their condition, treatment options, and potential
outcomes, as well as supporting them in making informed
decisions that reflect their personal goals and priorities.

3. Empathy and Compassion: Patient-centered care requires

healthcare providers to approach their interactions with patients
with empathy and compassion. This involves acknowledging the
emotions and experiences of patients, validating their feelings, and
providing support and reassurance throughout the healthcare
 journey. By demonstrating empathy and compassion, healthcare
providers can build trust and rapport with patients, which is
essential for effective communication and collaboration.

4. Holistic Approach to Care: Patient-centered care recognizes that

health is influenced by a wide range of factors, including social,
psychological, and environmental determinants. Rather than
focusing solely on the management of disease or symptoms,
patient-centered care takes a holistic approach to health,
considering the physical, emotional, and social dimensions of well-
being. This may involve addressing underlying social determinants
of health, such as access to housing, food, and transportation, as
well as supporting patients' emotional and psychosocial needs.

Benefits of Patient-Centered Care:

 Improved Patient Satisfaction: Patient-centered care is associated

with higher levels of patient satisfaction, as it places a greater
emphasis on meeting patients' individual needs and preferences.

 Better Health Outcomes: By involving patients in decision-making

processes and tailoring care plans to their unique circumstances,
patient-centered care has been shown to improve health outcomes
and treatment adherence.
  Enhanced Communication and Trust: Patient-centered care fosters
open and honest communication between healthcare providers and
patients, leading to stronger relationships built on trust and mutual
respect.

 Increased Patient Engagement: Patient-centered care encourages

active participation and engagement from patients in their own
healthcare, empowering them to take ownership of their health and
well-being.

 More Efficient Use of Resources: By addressing patients' needs

and preferences more effectively, patient-centered care can lead to
more efficient use of healthcare resources and reduced healthcare
costs over time.

Overall, patient-centered care represents a fundamental shift in

healthcare delivery that prioritizes the needs, preferences, and values of
patients. By embracing the principles of patient-centered care, healthcare
providers can enhance the quality of care they deliver, improve patient
outcomes, and foster stronger relationships with the individuals they
serve.
5.Explain about team meetings –Family Caregiver Participation?
Patient-centered care is an approach to healthcare that prioritizes the
individual needs, preferences, and values of patients. It represents a shift
away from traditional medical models that may focus primarily on
disease management or clinical outcomes, towards a more holistic
understanding of health that incorporates the patient's perspective into
decision-making processes.

Background: The concept of patient-centered care emerged in response

to criticisms of the traditional, paternalistic model of medicine, where
healthcare decisions were often made by healthcare providers without
sufficient consideration of patients' unique circumstances or preferences.
Patients were often treated as passive recipients of care rather than active
participants in their own health management.

In the late 20th century, healthcare researchers and practitioners began to

recognize the importance of involving patients in their own care and
considering their perspectives, values, and goals. This recognition led to
a paradigm shift in healthcare delivery, with a growing emphasis on
patient-centered approaches.
Key Principles of Patient-Centered Care:

1. Respect for Patients' Values and Preferences: Patient-centered care

starts with respecting the autonomy and dignity of patients.
Healthcare providers should engage in open and honest
communication with patients, actively listening to their concerns,
preferences, and goals, and involving them in decision-making
processes.

2. Collaboration and Shared Decision-Making: Patient-centered care

emphasizes collaboration between healthcare providers and
patients. Rather than making decisions in isolation, healthcare
providers should work together with patients to develop treatment
plans that align with the patient's values, preferences, and
circumstances. This approach involves providing patients with
information about their condition, treatment options, and potential
outcomes, as well as supporting them in making informed
decisions that reflect their personal goals and priorities.

3. Empathy and Compassion: Patient-centered care requires

healthcare providers to approach their interactions with patients
with empathy and compassion. This involves acknowledging the
emotions and experiences of patients, validating their feelings, and
providing support and reassurance throughout the healthcare
 journey. By demonstrating empathy and compassion, healthcare
providers can build trust and rapport with patients, which is
essential for effective communication and collaboration.

4. Holistic Approach to Care: Patient-centered care recognizes that

health is influenced by a wide range of factors, including social,
psychological, and environmental determinants. Rather than
focusing solely on the management of disease or symptoms,
patient-centered care takes a holistic approach to health,
considering the physical, emotional, and social dimensions of well-
being. This may involve addressing underlying social determinants
of health, such as access to housing, food, and transportation, as
well as supporting patients' emotional and psychosocial needs.

Benefits of Patient-Centered Care:

 Improved Patient Satisfaction: Patient-centered care is associated

with higher levels of patient satisfaction, as it places a greater
emphasis on meeting patients' individual needs and preferences.

 Better Health Outcomes: By involving patients in decision-making

processes and tailoring care plans to their unique circumstances,
patient-centered care has been shown to improve health outcomes
and treatment adherence.
  Enhanced Communication and Trust: Patient-centered care fosters
open and honest communication between healthcare providers and
patients, leading to stronger relationships built on trust and mutual
respect.

 Increased Patient Engagement: Patient-centered care encourages

active participation and engagement from patients in their own
healthcare, empowering them to take ownership of their health and
well-being.

 More Efficient Use of Resources: By addressing patients' needs

and preferences more effectively, patient-centered care can lead to
more efficient use of healthcare resources and reduced healthcare
costs over time.

Overall, patient-centered care represents a fundamental shift in

healthcare delivery that prioritizes the needs, preferences, and values of
patients. By embracing the principles of patient-centered care, healthcare
providers can enhance the quality of care they deliver, improve patient
outcomes, and foster stronger relationships with the individuals they
serve.