To be a patient is to be vulnerable, therefore, trust is a fundamental aspect of treating a patient so they can have the most effective recovery. Imagine every single time you are a patient, how do you initially feel when you are in the examination room waiting for your doctor to enter and see you? It is at that moment, vulnerability runs through your body and the search for alleviation begins. When a patient is vulnerable they need the secure feeling of trust in order to serve as the vehicle that drives towards healthy communication and responsiveness throughout the duration of their medical treatment. During the first few minutes, if your physician or nurse does not make you feel comfortable, then, your treatment and rehabilitation process will take a different turn and the outcome of the quality care you receive will either be non-existent or jeopardized.
Studies have revealed and established that there is a direct correlation of trust and quality patient care. New England Research Institutes conducted a study to observe the link between a patients’ trust and their behavior toward pursuing care, being involved in their treatment and following their physician’s orders regarding their treatment. The results revealed that the most important influence of what role a patient prefers to take in medical care is trust. Patients feel more inclined to follow directions when trust is developed. When a patient feels that a skilled nurse or physician genuinely cares about their well-being, the patient feels more engaged to follow the directions of the health care process. The patient will be more likely to follow the plan of care closely, gain confidence in the procedure and communicate accordingly. Physicians and nurses who demonstrate trust and compassion with their patient are less likely to experience emotional stress that is common in the healthcare field. This will promote a culture of stability, commitment and passion within any staff.
It evident that direct success of a healthcare facility is attributed to the trust patients feel towards their physician and nursing staff. Without trust the medical treatment can be negatively compromised and can lead to other problems arising. The study showed that increased trust in physicians typically is related to the patient’s willingness to be fully involved in their overall treatment. The greater the trust in a physician or nurse, the greater probability of patient adherence which will lead to the fulfillment of quality care. Ultimately, through trust, true quality care can be established which will produce healthy, positive long-term relationships among the physician, the nurses, the company staff and the patient.
What are some other trust-building tips you have found effective?
