Interpersonal patient-therapeutic team communication during COVID-19 pandemic – selected problems

Abstract

Introduction. Interpersonal communication is an important element of effective cooperationbetween a patient and therapeutic team. Patients ill with COVID-19 during the pandemicespecially needed a direct contact with medical staff. Introduction of modern technologiesduring COVID-19 pandemic enabled interpersonal communication between a patient andtherapeutic team.Objective: The aim of the study was presentation of the selected elements of interpersonalcommunication in the work of a nurse between a patient and therapeutic team during COVID-19 pandemic.Material and Methods. The problem of interpersonal communication between a patient andtherapeutic team during COVID-19 pandemic was analyzed based on the results of scientificstudies and perceptual experiences.Results. COVID-19 pandemic was a new challenge for therapeutic teams in patient care intreatment facilities, to provide an effective interpersonal communication. In order to improvethe quality of interpersonal communication alternative forms of communication with patientswere applied. During the COVID-19 pandemic social media played a special role in primaryhealth care. Efforts undertaken by medical staff also had to be focused on safe environment ofcare and safe work conditions.Conclusions. Interpersonal communication between a patient and therapeutic team should beimproved during the pandemic considering the provision of a high quality services for patientsin a state of threat to health and life. An improvement of the effectiveness of interpersonalcommunication is conditioned by the implementation of alternative forms of communicationwith a patient, efficient functioning of social media, provision of safe environment of patientcare and safe work conditions for medical staff.