This experience of positive and constructive communication contrasted sharply with a situation (described elsewhere) that resulted in a patient who was supposed to be nil by mouth took fluids and their planned surgery had to be rearranged at much inconvenience to theatre working. A key difference between the two situations was perhaps the background to the practice of the key workers in each of these situations. Listening can be considered as a consequence of certain other prerequisites (Howe, 2009). The attitude of the communicator has an impact; the smoking cessation advisor approached his client from the perspective of patient centeredness - with his best outcome at heart.'

References

DAVIS, Janis, FOLEY, Amy, CRIGGER, Nancy and BRANNIGAN, Michael C. (2008). Healthcare and Listening: A Relationship for Caring. The International Journal of Listening, 22 (2), 168–175.