2. Anything that gets in the way of clear communication is a communication barrier 3 common ones:  Physical Disabilities  Psychological attitudes and prejudices  Cultural Diversity

3.  Deafness or hearing loss  Blindness or impaired vision  Aphasia or speech disabilities

4.  Use body language such as gestures and signs  Speak clearly in short sentences  Face the individual to facilitate lip reading  Write messages if necessary  Make sure hearing aids are working properly

5.  Use a soft tone of voice  Describe events that are occurring  Announce your presence as you enter a room  Explain sounds or noises  Use touch when appropriate

6.  May have difficulty remembering correct words, pronouncing words or may have slurred speech  Health care worker must be patient  Allow them to try and speak  Encourage them to take their time  Repeat message to ensure accuracy  Encourage them to point or use gestures  Provide pen and paper if they can write  Use pictures with key messages to communicate

7.  Often caused by: 1. Prejudice 2. Attitudes 3. Personality Stereotypes such as “dumb blonde” or “fat slob” cause us to make snap judgments about others that affect the communication process

8.  Health care workers must learn to put prejudice aside and show respect for all individuals Is that possible? Do all patients have the right to quality health care?

9.  Allow patients to express their fears or anger  Encourage them to talk about their feelings  Avoid arguing  Remain calm  Talk in a non-threatening tone of voice  Provide quality care

10.  Each cultural group has beliefs and practices regarding health and illness  Some cultures believe the body needs balance—if the body is cold, they eat hot foods  Some cultures believe illness is due to demons and evil spirits  Some cultures believe health is a reward from God, and illness a punishment from God

11.  Cultural beliefs must be respected  Patients may practice cultural remedies in addition to modern health care techniques

12.  If someone does not speak English you may have difficulty communicating. You should: 1. Speak slowly 2. Use nonverbal communication (smile) 3. Avoid the tendency to speak louder 4. Find an interpreter

13.  In some cultures making eye contact is not acceptable  Some cultures consider looking down a sign of respect