Effective communication

Effective communication is a key interpersonal skill and learning how we can improve our communication has many benefits. Communication is a two way process, so improving communication involves both how we send and receive messages.

Effective communication is the process of exchanging information or ideas between two or more parties in a way that the intended message is understood clearly and accurately. Effective communication involves the use of various verbal and nonverbal communication skills to convey information, including speaking, listening, writing, and body language.

Some key elements of effective communication include:

Clarity: The message should be clear, concise, and easy to understand.

Active listening: Listening actively and attentively to the speaker, which involves paying attention to both verbal and nonverbal cues.

Empathy: Understanding the speaker's perspective and showing sensitivity towards their emotions and feelings.

Timing: Choosing the right time to communicate and ensuring that the message is conveyed at the appropriate time.

Respect: Respecting the opinions and beliefs of the other person and communicating in a manner that is respectful and considerate.

Feedback: Providing feedback and clarifying any misunderstandings to ensure that the message is understood correctly.

By mastering these elements, individuals and organizations can improve their communication skills and build stronger relationships with others. Effective communication is essential in both personal and professional settings, and it can lead to improved collaboration, increased productivity, and better outcomes.

Effective communication within multidisciplinary teams does not start and end with a case. It is increasingly acquired over years of collaborative work. The new “guideline” of the American Society of Neurophysiological Monitoring appears to be chiefly aimed at protecting the business model of the remote monitoring industry. Surgeons, hospitals, payers, and the broader IONM community may wish to assess the implications of its many flawed premises ¹⁾.