Nonverbal Communication*

Distance

When engaged in a personal conversation, the generally acceptable space between two people is from 1.5 to 4 feet.

open posture

A position that conveys a feeling of receptiveness and friendliness.

closed posture

A position that conveys the feeling of not being totally receptive to what is being said.

personal space

A certain area that surrounds an individual and within which another person's physical presence is felt as an intrusion.

security

A comforting touch helps patients feel that you care and gives them a sense of ___________ and acceptance.

Therapeutic Touch and Relationships

A comforting touch helps patients feel that you care and gives them a sense of security and acceptance.

nonverbally

A patient who is grimacing and wincing would be communicating _________.

Gestures

Gestures are body movements that enhance what is being said. There are many people who talk with their hands. Using hand and body gestures to accentuate a point can help the receiver understand the meaning.

nonverbal communication

Communication without words, expressed through body posture, hand movements, manner of walking, and facial expressions; also called body language.

demeanor

How a person appears, their expressions and body language.

Appearance

Image includes your overall appearance, expression of confidence and skills, and empathy.

Eye Contact

It tells the patient that you are interested in giving and receiving messages of mutual concern and interest. Use of eye contact while engaging in conversation permits an open, honest transmission of thoughts and ideas.

saying verbally

Make sure your nonverbal message matches what you are _______.

is not saying

Observe and document what the patient is _____.

Facial Expression

Part of perception is being aware of how others think you feel or see you.

whether the look on the patient face matches the patient demeanor

The perceptive medical assistant should be able to decide what feeder questions to ask the patient to determine __________________.

body language

The unconscious use of posture, position, mannerism, gestures, and other forms of nonverbal communication is called ______________; body movements, sending a message without words; referred to as nonverbal communication.

Silence

This method can be frustrating for the person to whom it is directed. When a patient exhibits this nonverbal way of communicating, you might need to ask a supervisor, a provider, or another staff member for assistance

1.5 to 4 feet

Which distance is acceptable when in a personal conversation between two people?

12 - 25 feet

Which distance is acceptable when in a public setting?

4 - 12 feet

Which distance is most appropriate when communicating with patients?

Dress

______ to send the correct message.

Nod your head

_______ to indicate approval or lack of understanding to the receiver.

Nonverbal communication

____________occurs without using any form of speech; congruent or incongruent silent messages influence the message the person receives; body language.