Verbal and Nonverbal Communication

Communication consists of many different variables that affect the message that is given and how it is received. Communication encompasses both verbal and nonverbal communication. When is comes to verbal communication there are many factors that can affect the message. The delivery is important in this case. Volume, pitch, tone, and speed are all principles to take into consideration when having verbal communication. This is called paralanguage and it is how the speech is delivered to the other party. Another important skill to have in verbal communication is empathy. It is important that both parties consider what the other party is communicating and have an understanding for it. Having empathy for others in communication builds trust and sets the groundwork for more effective communication in the future. Asking questions, paraphrasing, and using "I" statements can help build trust as well and show the other healthcare professional that you are listening and understanding what they are communicating.

In addition to verbal communication, nonverbal communication is important as well. Body language and facial expressions can affect how a message is communicated in a situation. Crossing of arms, poor eye contact, tapping of a pencil can all be signs of a frustrated, angry, or upset communicator. It can affect the message and it can affect the other party's perception of the situation as well. A smile, a pat on the back, open body language, and eye contact show a positive attitude when communicating. This promotes a good, positive atmosphere for communication.

Using these principles and paying attention to the verbal and nonverbal aspects of communication and others communications with each other can either help understand the message and what message that needs to be conveyed. Paying close attention to paralanguage and noticing when the other person is frustrated can help adjust the response and not letting the communication become hostile. Positive verbal communication and nonverbal communication helps promote future communications and builds the trust needed when speaking about patient care or any healthcare information among other healthcare professionals. Technology can greatly affect communication as well. Unfortunately, electronic communication does not show verbal and non verbal principles so messages can be easily misread. Paying attention to wording in emails and texts is important to avoid miscommunication. Use of punctuation can affect a message as well.

An example of a difficult verbal and nonverbal communication would be when I had to speak with an employee about their inappropriate talking in the hallway. An aide was talking loudly about a patient and I could hear in my office. I walked into the hallway and asked the employee to go to the report room with me but she seemed angry. We walked in and I closed the door so no one could hear and told her that she needs to be aware