Explain the Role of Effective Communication and Interpersonal Interaction in a Health and Social Care Context

Unit 1

Explain the role of effective communication and interpersonal interaction in a Health and Social Care context

Communication and interpersonal interaction is vital in our everyday lives, it ensures that everything goes according to plan and that people talk between themselves to ensure that there is a smooth exchange of information. Interpersonal interaction happens all around us and most of the time we do not realise it is happening^[1].

Types of Communication:

• Non-verbal: gestures, smiles, posture
• Verbal: Conversations, phone calls
• Informal: Talking to friends
• Formal: Meetings, teaching
• Written: Letters, texting, emails
• Special Methods: Makaton, Braille, Sign Language

Verbal Communications

Verbal communication is when someone talks to another person using sounds and words and they will listen. People who work in the health and social industry need a range of verbal communications skills. They need to be able to respond to the service user’s  requests/problems, contribute to the team ideas/suggestions to enable work to continue sensibly and to deal with problems at work such as complaints.

Non-Verbal Communications

Non-verbal communications is when people communicate with one another without using sounds, whether it be using gestures or their facial expressions.

Interpersonal Interactions

One to one is an important aspect as it is one of the most personal and private types of communication and is normally given in a formal situation but sometimes can be directed as informal. Therefore, it allows it to be much more confidential and direct thus meaning people can talk about complicated issues or even ‘give information’. If you take a care home for , you need to ensure that this is available at all times especially to the vulnerable ie. terminally ill, special needs or elderly. They need to be able to feel that they have someone to talk to and someone to care for them and you have to show them empathy.

Group communication means you can take part in a group discussion and address the same issues and work together to help resolve problems. Not everyone may want to discuss their ideas/problems to a group of people and it works best if people want to be involved. Some people may feel pressured into talking within a group and may stay quiet as they are anxious about other’s reactions or views. For example, in support groups such as AA (Alcoholics anonymous), people may want to share their experience with one another to better their understanding and support and empathise with one another.

Professionals such as doctors, nurses and social workers need to ensure that when they are communicating with one another, they use formal language but also often their own specialised language community. (Jargon) Their language community is made up of special words, phrases and social expectations and mannerisms that differ from the people around them. Doctors know that they need to translate their technical language into terms so that other professionals would know the meanings. For example DNR means do not resuscitate and NBM means nil by mouth.