Factors that impact upon the communication process at triage
The complex process of communication always occurs within a range of influencing factors, as illustrated in Diagram 3.1. The more the Triage Nurse understands these factors that influence the effectiveness of communication, the better the communication and the quality of data gathered.
Diagram 3.1: Simplified image of communication at triage
PHASE 1
Patient communicates health concerns to nurse.
PATIENT |
Nurse asks questions. Patient answers. Nurse checks for understanding. |
NURSE |
triage decision made |
15 |
PATIENT |
Nurse informs patient of triage outcome and checks for understanding. |
NURSE |
PHASE 4 |
|
|
|
|
patient acts accordingly |
PATIENT |
After the triage encounter, both parties have opportunity for further communication while patient is in waiting room. |
|
|
NURSE |
nurse moves to next patient |
INFLUENCING FACTORS
Department of Health and Ageing – Emergency Triage Education Kit