Annelie J Sundler Professor, University of Borås

Sandra van Dulmen, Professor, Nivel (Netherlands institute for health services research), Utrecht, the Netherland; Radboud university medical center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; University of Borås, Sweden

Lena Hedén, Associate professor, University of Borås

Ida Kleye, Doctoral student, University of Borås; University West

Tanja Gustavsson, Lecturer, University of Borås

Elin Blanck, Lecturer, University of Gothenburg, Centre for Person-Centred Care (GPCC), & University of Borås.

Person-centred care places the person in the centre. To treat patients as persons is a complex and ongoing process that requires communication efforts to acknowledge patients’ experiences and involvement in healthcare. Given that the notions of person-centeredness and patient involvement are pivotal to respond to the needs and preferences of patients, the overall aim of this symposium is to give in-depth insights from our research on communication and person-centred care for patients in different ages and healthcare practices. We will further discuss the contribution and importance of  communication to person-centred care, shared decision-making, and patient involvement.

Mind your words (van Dulmen). Communication behaviors can have both positive effects on patient outcomes and be perceived as harmful. As shown in several studies, strengthening beneficial and preventing adverse effects of communication requires a person-centered and tailored approach.

Child involvement and emotional communication during needle procedures (Kleye). The way in which nurses communicate with children during needle procedures can really make a difference. Our observational study shows that when children’s own preferences and strategies is taken into account, fear and pain can be handled in a better way.

Empathic opportunities when caring for older persons (Gustavsson). Our research shows that communication with older patients about their emotional distress depends on seizing empathic opportunities. This asks for caution and attention by professionals to emotional cues and concerns.

Partnership and accountability (Blanck). Partnership as observed in patient-nurse interactions will be discussed in terms of social, cognitive, and moral accountability, and its impact on the formation of partnership as a joint interactional achievement.