The Strength of the “R” Word!
Several weeks ago, I had the priveledge of participating in a Webinar\{you got to love these newly created tech terms\} which looked at the Role and Importance of Motivation in Stroke Recovery.
The participants were a mixture of clinicians, academics\{Dr. Simone Dorsch.Senior Lecturer. Australian Catholic University,Sydney\} and stroke survivors and the consensus was that RAPPORT between stakeholders was vital in the rehab process.
Let me set the record straight –I am not a clinician or an academic involved in stroke rehab, but a mere stroke survivor with an extensive background in marketing, which involved the building of rapport through the transfer of knowledge and information about a product/ service.
In my opinion the task facing a clinician with a stroke survivor is somewhat similar, the clinician must attempt to build a level of trust so they are able to transfer their rehab skill, in order that the rehab process to commence.
In a similar manner marketers have to gain the trust of the potential client by building a relationship with the client; demonstrating in a credible manner the benefits to be gained- whether it is a box of cereal or a new automobile.
So must the clinician build a relationship \{RAPPORT\} with the Stroke Survivor so the rehab journey can begin and importantly proceed.
Some Factors which can assist in building Rapport- From a Survivors POV.
Good Open Communication -this is a key factor in improving rehab outcomes. Being aware of and understanding your patient’s communication preferences and state of mind can help build rapport. If your patient is not proficient in English, utilise a family member to communicate with them.
Avoid the use of “pidgin” English, it is patronising, condescending and will not achieve your communication objectives.
Encouraging your patient to share their feelings with you can also assist in creating Open Communication.
Show Empathy –Empathy is the ability to understand the patient’s situation and feelings. It can assist you\{the clinician\} in delivering individual tailored plans.
Active Listening – Be an “Active Listener”- Active Listening is a non-intrusive way of sharing a patient’s thoughts and feelings –Listening to what the patient is saying and what they are NOT saying. Repeat what you have heard from the patient. Check with the patient to ensure your thoughts are correct.
Keep your Word – Keeping your word is one of the most effective ways of building rapport with your patient. If you tell them, you will do something- then DO IT! If your ability to complete a promised task- TELL YOUR PATIENT!Do not over promise and under deliver-keeping your word with patients not only builds rapport but it also builds trust
There is not a manual on how to build rapport with Stroke Survivors, but I hope that these thoughts of mine can help you to find a method or hopefully it will reinforce what you are already doing!
A stroke Survivor, I saw and experienced excellent examples of clinicians building rapport with Stroke Survivors and sadly I experienced the other end of the spectrum.
I was not backward in reminding those of the importance of rapport in my rehab process!
I posted a Blog on Non-Verbal Communications which you may also find interesting and helpful- here is the Link-
Happy Trails, Boys and Girls!