Jeanette M. Wolfe, MD: “But, I Didn’t Say Anything!” – Tips for Effective Nonverbal Communication in the ED

Whether dealing with your teenager or the patient you see on your next shift, you have recognized that so much of communication is based in not what we say but how we say it. Whether it is simple thing like the way we dress to the more nuanced ways we focus our attention when we speak to patients, nonverbal communication is key to recognizing when a patient needs a bit more TLC, while being cognizant of your own nonverbal habits can radically change the way patients perceive you. Mindful communication strategies involving more than just what comes out of your mouth can greatly enhance your relationship with your patients and interactions with co-workers.