SHM Converge Scientific Abstract ePoster Gallery-An Evaluation of a Brief Educational Session to Improve Use of Patient Centered Language Among Medical Students and Residents

An Evaluation of a Brief Educational Session to Improve Use of Patient Centered Language Among Medical Students and Residents

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This study evaluated whether a brief educational session could improve patient-centered communication among medical students and residents. The session taught participants to avoid medical jargon, simplify complex information, and center the person rather than the diagnosis. Learners then applied these concepts to a heart failure case vignette.<br /><br />A total of 122 residents from five GME sites in a large healthcare system participated; incomplete surveys were excluded. The evaluation used anonymous pre- and post-session questionnaires measuring perceptions and self-reported knowledge/skills related to patient-centered language. The educational design was based on Kern’s six-step approach and assessed learning up to Kirkpatrick levels 1–3.<br /><br />Results showed strong positive impact. Residents’ scores improved after the session, indicating increased understanding of patient-centered language. Most notably, 71% of participants (87/122) reported that the session changed their communication practices at the bedside. Before the session, 32% (38/122) wanted additional education in this area. Participant feedback was highly favorable, with one repeated comment being, “We needed more of this when we started Residency.”<br /><br />The authors conclude that a short educational intervention can effectively increase awareness and use of patient-centered language. Future plans include moving from paper surveys to electronic surveys, improving session flow to reduce incomplete responses, and offering more frequent structured teaching sessions. The goal is to further improve resident communication, patient experience, and patient adherence to treatment.

Asset Subtitle

Lalitha Ranga

Meta Tag

Author List Jared S. Honigman Do, Lalitha Ranga, Liron Sinvani

Category Research

Concept Patient-Centered Communication

Concept Health Literacy

Concept Medical Jargon

Concept Person-First Language

Concept Bedside Communication

Distinguished Non-Finalist

Presenter Organization Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/ Northwell South Shore University Hospital

Presenting Author Lalitha Ranga

Track Education

Keywords

patient-centered communication

medical education

resident training

avoid medical jargon

communication skills

heart failure case vignette

Kern six-step approach

Kirkpatrick evaluation

patient-centered language

healthcare communication

Patient-Centered Communication

Health Literacy

Medical Jargon

Person-First Language

Bedside Communication