Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of effective communication in a healthcare setting?

In a healthcare setting, effective communication is crucial for ensuring patient safety, promoting efficient collaboration among healthcare teams, and enhancing the overall patient experience. Characteristics that support effective communication include openness to feedback, clarity of messages, and active listening skills, all of which facilitate understanding and foster professional relationships.

Personal biases, on the other hand, hinder effective communication. They can distort the message being conveyed and can lead to misunderstandings or misinterpretations. When individuals allow their personal biases to influence their communication, it may create barriers that prevent open dialogue, undermine trust, and affect the quality of care provided to patients. Emphasizing and cultivating the other characteristics—such as receiving feedback constructively, ensuring clear and concise messaging, and practicing active listening—supports an environment where effective communication can thrive, leading to better patient outcomes and team dynamics.