By Sheri B. Feldscher OTR/L, CHT

Communication is defined as “the imparting or exchanging of information.” My best tip for good patient communication is to first listen to your patients. Listen to what is most important to them and what they plan to do upon leaving the clinic. Then I include that personalized information into my instructions for home. I make good eye contact and clearly lay out do’s and don’ts with regard to the specific activities that we discussed. I provide them with all instructions clearly written out with pictures and have them repeat them back to me and/or demonstrate them. For patients that have difficulty doing so, I find that recording important exercises or instructions on their cell phone is helpful.

Sheri B. Feldscher OTR/L, CHT
Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center