This book was conceived in response to the increasing recognition of the
central role of communication in effective healthcare delivery,
particularly in high-stress contexts. Over a three-year period, the
research team investigated communication between patients and clinicians
in five representative emergency departments (EDs). The book describes
the communicative complexity and intensity of work in the ED and
identifies the features of successful patient-clinician interactions.
Drawing on authentic examples of communication within the ED, the book
provides comprehensive communication strategies for healthcare
professionals that can be readily integrated into everyday practice.
'Professor Diana Slade and her colleagues have written an innovative and
practical book on communication and relationships in emergency
departments and their effects on the patient experience. Rarely does one
find a book that so seamlessly translates research findings into
practical action strategies. The book is an invaluable resource for the
training of physicians, nurses, hospital administrators and others in
healthcare.'
- Elizabeth A. Rider, MSW, MD, FAAP, Department of Pediatrics,
Harvard Medical School
'My participation in the UTS Emergency Communication project provided
extraordinary insights into the complexities and subtleties of
communication encounters during a patient's emergency department
journey. This project has made a lasting impact on my daily work, and I
hope will improve emergency patient care into the future.'
- Dr Nick Taylor, Emergency Medicine Specialist, The Canberra
Hospital
'The captured clinical conversations between doctors, nurses and
patients are fascinating... The discussion and conclusions provide a
rare insight into an integral and critical component of Emergency
Medicine practice. The team, led by Professor Slade, was truly
unobtrusive, professional and personable.'
- Dr Marian Lee, Emergency Physician, Director of Emergency Medicine
Training
