Interpersonal communication: a review of eye contact

Because healthcare takes place in the context of an interpersonal relationship, it is important for the healthcare worker to be cognizant of eye contact and the implications eye contact may have on the delivery of patient care. The healthcare worker should consider a variety of factors in evaluating the patient's eye contact including cultural background, emotional state, personality characteristics, and gender. Each patient should be personally assessed and appropriate healthcare strategies planned that meet individual needs. Interpersonal approaches need to be modified on an ongoing basis as the patient provides feedback during the healthcare worker-patient interaction.