What outcome is associated with active listening in patient care?

Active listening is a communication technique that involves fully concentrating on what is being said, understanding the message, responding thoughtfully, and remembering the information. In patient care, this practice fosters an environment where patients feel heard and understood, which is fundamental in building a therapeutic relationship between the patient and provider.

When healthcare providers engage in active listening, they encourage open dialogue, allowing patients to express their concerns, ask questions, and provide important self-reporting of symptoms. This leads to improved clarity in the exchange of information, demonstrating respect and validation of the patient’s experiences. Effective communication not only enhances patient understanding of their health conditions and treatment options but also promotes adherence to care plans.

In contrast, the other outcomes listed, such as decreased patient satisfaction, increased wait times, and more frequent cancellations, do not reflect the benefits of active listening. Instead, these could result from poor communication or a lack of engagement, which does not cultivate a positive patient experience. Thus, improving patient-provider communication through active listening is essential for enhancing patient satisfaction and overall care quality.