How to treat paients with RESPECT - a guide for doctors !

This is a clever acronym !

" Steps of RESPECT

Respect – A respectful approach helps reduce defensiveness.
“I appreciate how hard this has been for you…”
Explanatory Model – Seeking patients’ explanations of their symptoms conveys an interest; presents
a starting point for discussions (not dismissals); and can promote patients’ forthrightness.
“What do you think is causing your symptoms? Why?”
Social Context – ‘Chit chat’ can promote comfort and provide insights into patients’ well-being.
“How are you doing today?” “How’s work?” “How is the family?”
Power – Resisting the impulse to take over and finding ways to share power can encourage patients to
think of themselves as partners in care, not consumers guided by the motto: Buyer Beware!
“What would you like to do? Why?
Empathy – Responding to feelings heard ‘between the lines’ and not judging those feelings, shows
that you’re not only listening, but that you ‘get it.’
“That sounds so difficult (frustrating, frightening, etc.).”
Concerns – Eliciting concerns can help patients start to process information and reach decisions.
“You seem reluctant to…” “Why?”
Trust – Acknowledging patients’ sharing of info can encourage them to continue doing so.
“I really appreciate your sharing that with me.”