Chapter 2: Interviewing, Communication, and Interpersonal Skills -
Summary
Fundamentals of Skilled Interviewing
Effective interviewing requires mastering a range of techniques to build
rapport and gather accurate patient data:
Active Listening: Focus on the patient’s words, emotions, and body
language to foster open communication.
Guided Questioning: Start with open-ended questions, then narrow
focus using graded responses or echoing.
Empathic Responses: Acknowledge and validate patient emotions to
build trust.
Summarization: Recap patient information to ensure accuracy and
understanding.
Transitions: Smoothly guide the conversation between topics or
stages.
Validation: Show understanding of the patient’s experiences or
feelings.
Empowering Patients: Encourage active participation in care
decisions.
Appropriate Reassurance: Provide information to ease concerns
without false guarantees.
Verbal and Nonverbal Communication
Language: Use clear, non-stigmatizing language and avoid medical
jargon.
Nonverbal Cues: Maintain eye contact, observe posture, and match
the patient’s energy to convey empathy and attentiveness.
Addressing Sensitive Topics
Be nonjudgmental and explain the rationale for questions to reduce
patient discomfort.
Topics include sexual health, substance use, domestic violence, mental
health, and end-of-life care.
