Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 23, 2026

Using Visual and Narrative Methods to Achieve Fair Process in Clinical Care
Published on: February 16, 2011
Nonverbal aids for improving staff communication
1Laura Sachs Consultations, 13518 Moss Glen Road, Clifton, VA 20124, USA.
Abstract:
Speaking face-to-face is the most common form of communication between doctor(s)/office managers and members of the professional practice staff. However, several nonverbal aids can enhance understanding tremendously and may be used in addition to or instead of speaking. In this article, we will explore when and how to use the best nonverbal communication aids. These include memos, a staff bulletin board, an office mail center, correspondence routing, paycheck inserts, a staff newsletter, and staff surveys. This article also includes a sample staff survey and suggests situations that are not appropriate for using nonverbal aids.
Related Concept Videos
Communication
Within...
Therapeutic Communication
Verbal communication depends on language or a prescribed way of using words so that people can share information effectively. The critical aspects of verbal...
Techniques of therapeutic communication I: Active Listening, Sharing Observations, Validation, and Using Touch
Therapeutic communication is not the same as social interaction. Social interaction has no goal or purpose and consists of casual information sharing, whereas therapeutic communication has a plan or purpose for the conversation. Therapeutic...
Techniques of Therapeutic Communication II: Focusing, Paraphrasing, and Summarizing
This therapeutic technique can also be used when a patient brings up pertinent information during a health-related conversation. The...
Barriers to Effective Communication I
Communication barriers include the following:
Physiological barriers: They are limitations caused by a person's health condition or disability, such as hearing loss, poor eyesight, illness, or unconsciousness. An example to overcome this barrier...
Barriers to Effective Communication II
Cultural barriers:
Differences in values, beliefs, religion, knowledge, and tradition can significantly impact communication. Awareness of nonverbal cues is critical, especially when conversing with a patient from a different culture. What appears appropriate in one culture may be inappropriate in another.
Semantic barriers:
As a result of their tendency to use...

