This week we will provide tips and strategies our clinicians use to build rapport and trust with our patients.
INITIAL INTERACTION OR BEGINNING OF AN APPOINTMENT:
- Announce yourself before entering the room.
- Approach slowly and be sure to position yourself in front of the patient.
- Maintain eye contact and address the patient with a smile on your face.
- Speak directly and slowly.
- Try to keep your questions short and to the point, ask one at a time.
- Explain why you are there and what you will be doing.
- Be patient and repeat yourself as necessary.
- Ask the resident’s permission to begin.
- Give the resident positive feedback during the appointment and at the end of treatment.
Over the next few weeks we will discuss common obstacles you may encounter while providing dental treatment to nursing home residents and tips on how to handle each scenario.