How to communicate with patients in pain

Abstract

Traditionally during training, clinicians focus upon gaining pharmacological knowledge and procedural and technological skills. This often leaves trainees failing to appreciate the effects of communication on patient perceptions and experiences and the power of communication to elicit positive therapeutic patient outcomes. Effective communication skills can be taught and developed over time and have the potential to improve patient satisfaction and reduce medical error. The LAURS (Listening, Acceptance, Utilisation, Reframing and Suggestion) framework provides a structure for clinicians to communicate more effectively with patients in pain, Communication in this setting is not just an optional extra but a core clinical skill to optimize patient care.