Medical and nursing student communication skills: Preparing to treat Latino patients

• Published in: Journal of communication in healthcare 2014-07, Vol.7 (2), p.128-136
• Main Authors: Sherrill, Windsor Westbrook, Mayo, Rachel M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Communication barriers; Communication disparities; Cultural competence; Hispanic; Latino; Medical education; Nursing education
• ISSN: 1753-8068; 1753-8076
• DOI: 10.1179/1753807614Y.0000000052

For this study, the researchers had two objectives: (1) to examine future providers' perceptions regarding Latino patients and related communication challenges and (2) to explore the relationships between students' past experiences with Latinos and their comfort level in treating Latino patients. Researchers assessed cultural competence, communication skills, and overall readiness to treat Latino patients among medical and nursing students using a web-based survey. Previous related survey instruments, pilot tests, focus group feedback, and expert review informed the development of the instrument. Key associations were observed between individual items in the survey evaluating communication skills and variables such as rapport with patients and comfort assessing medical conditions. Overall, the students' responses reflected inadequate knowledge of the Latino population and some discomfort in treating Latino patients. Language proficiency and clinical experience with Latino patients were correlated with comfort with Latino patients. These findings suggest that positive interaction between Latinos and medical and nursing students has the potential to improve patient care. Providing opportunities for cultural immersion as well as training focused on patient-centered communication with Latino patients can moderate provider avoidance of and unsatisfactory rapport with Latino patients.