Effective Communication in the Laboratory

Effective Communication in the Laboratory

Definition of communication: Communication is the accurate passing on or sharing of information in district laboratory work. There  are three main ways of communication .
  1. Communication by writing.
  2. Communication by speaking
  3. Communication by action.

Written communication:

To be effective written communication needs to be:
(a)    Presented legibly and neatly.
(b)   Writing clearly and simply.
  1. Presented legibly and neatly: In laboratory work, serious consequences may result, When hard written figures or word are read incorrectly because of poor hand writing, or untidy correction .In illegibly written report may result in a patient receiving incorrect treatment.
  2. Writing clearly and simply:  A trained laboratory officer needs to know how to write clear reports and instruction with regard to standard operating procedures, use of  equipment. Collection of specimen etc.

Spoken communication :

a.Clearity of speech and language used.
b. Tone of voice.
c. Ability to speak informatively.

Clarity of Speech and Language used:

The words spoken can be herd distinctly by the person to whom they are addressed in a language that is clearly that is clearly understood by the person.

Tone of Voice:

A kind and understanding tone of voice may greatly help a patient, especially a child to feel lessfrighrend . He should-
-Reassure patient by explaining the procedure of a test and without disclosing professional information.
- Try always to have the time to listen.
- Communicate well in difficult situation for example during cross matching.

Ability to Speak Informatively:

It is important when giving the result of tests by telephone or directly to a medical officer community relating to patients.

Communication by Action:

Should be through a culturally acceptable bodily manner and actions is particularly important when relating to patients.

Importance of Communication Effectively:

Laboratory staff must be able to communicate well if a laboratory service is to function smoothly and reliably and inspire user confidence.

Important Consideration :

1.   Nature of the information to be communicative.
2.  Most effective way.

Guide Lines for Effective Communication:

1 . Seek to classify your ideas before communication.
2. Consider the total physical and human setting when even you communicate.
3. When you communicate be mindful of the tone as well as content of your massage.
4. Follow of your communication.
5. Take the opportunity when it arise to convey something of help of value to the receiver.
6. Seek not only to be understood but to understand  on be a good listener.