Convey to the patient and family that they are important to you and that you want to help them.

There are many ways to do this; you must do what is comfortable and natural for you. However, there are some things everyone can do.

Convey honesty and trustworthiness.

Try not to overwhelm the patient with embarrassing or personal questions. When it is necessary to ask personal questions, explain why and keep it short and matter-of-fact.

Don’t make promises you can’t keep.

If you say you are going to do something, make every effort to do it or see that it gets done.

Try to be there when you say you will.

If you are late, explain why.

Communicate with each patient as an individual.

This is especially important in a hospital setting, where patients often experience a loss of identity. In order to do so, you must try to get to know the patient. Listen to him. Put yourself in his place.

Accept and respect the patient despite the symptoms of his illness.