Beyond words: the patients's unspoken messages

ABSTRACT

Patients present us with a wealth of information some of it verbal, a great deal of it non-verbal. Our diagnotic skills can be immeasurably enhanced when we are able first to notice and then to utilise the non-verbal information which patients - often unwittingly - are presenting to us. By applying the technique of 'matching' a good rapport with the patient is achieved which is quite simply the basis of all successful communication. Some pointers and exercises helpful for practioners to make the most of the non-verbal information are offered