Introduction
Effective communication is a cornerstone of successful pediatric healthcare. Recent research highlights the potential of online training to enhance communication skills among clinicians, particularly during pediatric visits involving mental health concerns. This blog delves into the outcomes of the study titled "Enhancing communication skills for pediatric visits through on-line training using video demonstrations" and explores how practitioners can leverage these insights to improve their practice.
Study Overview
The study, conducted by Kemper et al. (2008), evaluated the feasibility and desirability of an online course designed to improve communication skills during pediatric visits. The course consisted of 28 modules, each featuring video demonstrations of key communication skills such as greeting, setting an agenda, discussing diagnosis and treatment, and managing negative interactions. The course aimed to enhance clinicians' confidence and effectiveness in handling pediatric mental health concerns.
Key Findings
- High Satisfaction and Confidence: Over 85% of participants agreed that the course met its objectives, with more than 90% reporting increased confidence in key communication areas.
- Positive Feedback: Nearly all participants (97%) recommended the course to others, highlighting its effectiveness in improving communication skills.
- Suggestions for Improvement: Participants suggested additional video vignettes and written materials to complement the online training.
Implications for Practitioners
The study underscores the value of online training in enhancing communication skills for pediatric visits. Practitioners can benefit from integrating similar online courses into their professional development. Key takeaways include:
- Flexibility and Accessibility: Online training offers a flexible and accessible alternative to in-person training, especially for busy clinicians.
- Video Demonstrations: Incorporating video demonstrations can effectively illustrate desired communication behaviors, making learning more engaging and practical.
- Continuous Improvement: Practitioners are encouraged to seek out additional resources and training opportunities to continually refine their communication skills.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides valuable insights, further research is needed to compare the effectiveness of online versus in-person training and to explore its applicability to other clinical communication settings. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in ongoing research and training to stay abreast of best practices in pediatric communication.
Conclusion
Online training presents a promising avenue for enhancing communication skills in pediatric healthcare. By leveraging video demonstrations and flexible learning formats, practitioners can improve their ability to manage pediatric mental health concerns effectively. For those interested in exploring the original research paper, please follow this link: Enhancing communication skills for pediatric visits through on-line training using video demonstrations.
