This Communication Self-Assessment is also available in Word format (16 KB).
Directions: After a patient encounter, rate whether you agree, are neutral, or disagree with the statements in the table. Your self-assessment is subjective, but it allows you to examine your communication with patients honestly. After completing the assessment, think about how you could improve.
Question | Agree | Neutral | Disagree |
---|---|---|---|
1. For patients or companions whose preferred language is not English: I used qualified interpreters or spoke to them in their preferred language fluently. | |||
2. I greeted the patient warmly and maintained a caring attitude. | |||
3. I was respectful and made appropriate eye contact. | |||
4. I used open-ended questions to encourage the patient and companions to participate in the conversation and voice their concerns throughout the visit. | |||
5. I listened without interrupting. | |||
6. I covered no more than 1 to 3 key points and reviewed them more than once. | |||
7. I used plain, nonmedical language. | |||
8. I spoke clearly and at a moderate pace. | |||
9. I gave specific, concrete explanations and instructions. | |||
10. I used graphics such as a picture, diagram, or model to help explain something (if applicable). | |||
11. I demonstrated how to do something (e.g., how to take medicine or exercise) (if applicable). | |||
12. I created the expectation that I wanted the patient and companions to ask questions (e.g., asking "What questions do you have?"). | |||
13. I checked that I was clear by asking the patient to describe what they need to know or do using their own words or by demonstrating. |
What areas can you improve on? What strategies can you use to improve them?