In EMS, many skills are learned and practiced over and over to ensure that the provider is confident and capable of treating a patient in various situations. An EMS provider may spend several weeks or months learning to properly establish an IV, intubate a patient, or use the monitor during a code scenario. However, there is one skill that is often overlooked, effective communication. Developing the ability to effectively communicate with patients, co-workers, other healthcare providers, like nurses and doctors, and even emergency dispatchers, should not be understated in this profession. The skill comes naturally to some, but to others, it takes a lot of time and practice. Perfecting your ability to communicate with others continually is required for success in the field of EMS. Emergency personnel will have to communicate with various individuals in unique ways throughout a single patient transport. Establishing the ability to communicate effectively during emergencies will drastically improve the type of care your patients receive.

Communicating With a Patient

As an EMS provider, you are required to interact with patients. You will often respond to patients on one of the worst days of their lives. Emotions will be high, and interactions will be unlike most exchanges you have with people outside of work. This is when the ability to communicate effectively will be most crucial. Your job will be to try and gather as much information as possible and build trust with your patient so that you can perform the skills necessary to help them. In some situations, communicating calmly and compassionately is the most helpful thing you can do for a patient. People tend to do much better during crises when you can remove their fear. Statements such as "We're here to take care of you", and "We're going to do everything we can to help" make a difference for someone during an emergency. 

     Obtaining information from people is not always an easy task. Some are reluctant to give information because they are scared or nervous. Developing rapport and gaining the patient's trust can be crucial in obtaining the information you need to care for the patient properly. Some questions you ask may be very personal or uncomfortable for the patient to discuss. Explain to the patient why it is important that they give you as much information as possible and assure them that you are required to keep it confidential. 

     Another important skill is active listening. Patients are more likely to talk with you when they know they are being heard. Some techniques for active listening include making eye contact, getting on the patient's level, and repeating key parts of what they are saying. If you need to take notes or put information into the computer, tell them that you are doing so, but assure them that you are still listening.

Communicating With Other Health Care Professionals

Effective communication with other healthcare providers, such as nurses and doctors, plays a vital role in the patient's overall care. EMS providers have an enormous responsibility, as often, the only information the nurses and doctors will receive is the information EMS gathered while on the scene. EMS providers must accurately paint a picture of what occurred on the scene and communicate it effectively so that the emergency staff can treat the patient accordingly. Miscommunication or information that is left out could compromise patient care and safety. 

     The overall goal is a smooth transition from pre-hospital to definitive care. Clear, concise, and respectful communication with all healthcare professionals is the greatest tool for accomplishing this goal. 

Conclusion

Quality patient care involves far more than just medical knowledge and the ability to perform specific skills. The ability to effectively communicate with patients and health care providers is vital for the safety of the patient and the continuity of care. Learning to communicate effectively is difficult, but with time and practice, it will make a difference in your ability to care for and treat patients throughout your career.

Key Takeaway Points

• Effective communication builds trust with your patient
• Calm, compassionate communication removes patients' fear during stressful situations
• Active listening is part of being an effective communicator
• Effective communication with other healthcare providers is essential to ensure the safety and proper treatment of the patient throughout the rest of their care
• Effective communication is vital to your success as an EMS provider