• 9 years ago
• Posted in:01: Professionalism
• 0
• Author: hsin-ying hsieh
• Tags: Client care, clinical practice, communication, lasting client relationship

Effective communication leads to positive client relationship.

During the course of my learning experiences, I learned the significance of having effective communication skills as a dental hygiene professional. Dental hygienists regularly interact with peers, other healthcare providers and clients to enhance the safety and quality of life for their clients and the public¹, highlighting the importance of both verbal and nonverbal communication.² Effective communication establishes and maintains effective working partnerships with other professionals, clients, and individuals to achieve common goals.^1-4 Throughout the past three years, I have undergone situations of difficult and successful interpersonal interactions, both have advanced my ability to communicate.

To provide optimal dental hygiene care for clients, dental hygienists must possess competent communication skills, in addition to clinical skills and knowledge.²
I recall a particular instance where communication led to constructive feedback from a client. During a session of client care. I performed debridement for Mrs. X, who had moderate calculus levels and slight recession. It appeared that she would experience sensitivity due to root exposure after the calculus removal. Therefore, I informed her about the post-operation effect she might experience and explained the therapeutic recommendations. One week later, Mrs. X expressed her gratitude for the thoroughness of the treatment as she indeed experienced soreness and discomfort around the gum line. She felt that, on top of oral care, she was given emotional care as well. Since she was provided with precautionary instructions, she was able to self-manage post-operation discomfort. I was able to provide comfort to Mrs. X, which is an essential component of the CARE principle of communication.² I acknowledge from this personal experience, the importance of applying comfort, acceptance, responsiveness and empathy (CARE) during client care.² With competent communication, dental hygienists can establish and maintain positive client relationships.² 

This occasion allowed me to understand and appreciate my strengths in communication. I was able to identify and learn from my limitations and transform to my strengths. I am confident that by constantly practicing effective communication, I will be prepared as I enter the professional field. 

References:

1. Cdha.ca. Canadian Competencies for Baccalaureate Dental Hygiene Programs, 2015 [Internet]. 2015 [cited 29 November 2015]. Available from: http://www.cdha.ca/cdha/The_Profession_folder/Resources_folder/Reports_folder/CDHA/The_Profession/Resources/Reports.aspx?hkey=235bb4c0-7d52-4d1f-b42a-8b04e365c2e2
2. Oliver HE. Communication and behavioral change theories. Ch.4. In: Darby ML, Walsh MM, editors. Dental hygiene theory and practice, 3rd ed. Missouri: Saunders Elsevier; 2010. p. 37-55.
3. Adler RB, ProctorIII RF, Towne N, Rolls JA. Looking out looking in. 3^rd Toronto: Thomson; 2005.
4. Molyneux J. Interprofessional teamworking: what makes teams work well. J Interprof Care. 2001;15(1): 29-35. doi:1080/13561820020022855