I need 2 paragraph or 1 page in APA format with proper references. Please pay attention to the instruction. After watching the video, please discuss the following: 23:19 n/a – 8/27/10 Patients in the video describe hiding their lack of health literacy from their providers due to shame. Describe a way that you can develop a “shame-free” attitude in your practice when teaching patients?
Patients’ experience of hiding their lack of health literacy due to shame is a significant barrier to effective communication between patients and healthcare providers. In order to develop a “shame-free” attitude in practice when teaching patients, healthcare professionals can employ several strategies. First, fostering a supportive and non-judgmental environment is crucial. This can be achieved through active listening, empathy, and creating a safe space for patients to share their healthcare concerns and ask questions without fear of embarrassment or shame.
Secondly, healthcare providers can utilize plain language and avoid medical jargon when communicating with patients. Using simpler terminology and explaining medical concepts in a clear and understandable manner can help patients feel more empowered and less ashamed of their lack of health literacy. Providing written materials or visual aids can further enhance patient understanding and reduce the potential for shame.
Moreover, incorporating health literacy assessment tools in the clinical setting can assist healthcare professionals in identifying patients with low health literacy. These tools, such as the Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine or the Newest Vital Sign, can help healthcare providers recognize patients who may require additional support and tailor their teaching methods accordingly. By proactively addressing patients’ health literacy needs, healthcare providers can demonstrate their commitment to patient-centered care and create an environment where patients feel comfortable expressing their concerns.
Furthermore, healthcare providers can offer educational resources and referrals to support services outside of the clinical setting. This can include directing patients to community organizations, literacy programs, or online platforms that provide reliable health information in accessible formats. By connecting patients with resources beyond the immediate healthcare encounter, healthcare providers can support patients’ ongoing health literacy development and reduce the isolation and shame associated with limited knowledge.
Lastly, healthcare professionals can engage in ongoing professional development and training to enhance their own health literacy skills. This can involve attending workshops, seminars, or online courses that focus on effective patient communication and health literacy promotion. By continuously updating their knowledge and skills in this area, healthcare providers can better meet the needs of their patients and establish a culture of awareness and sensitivity towards health literacy challenges.
In conclusion, developing a “shame-free” attitude in practice when teaching patients with limited health literacy is essential for effective communication and patient-centered care. By creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment, using plain language, employing health literacy assessment tools, offering educational resources and referrals, and engaging in ongoing professional development, healthcare providers can contribute to a healthcare setting that encourages open dialogue, understanding, and empowerment for patients with diverse health literacy levels.