Avant eLearning module: Communication Strategies for Challenging Patients

This eLearning module aims to refresh communication skills specifically to assist the doctor during a consultation with a challenging patient.
The course utilises case studies and interactive elements and has an associated workbook.

Relevance to General Practice

There is need for improvement in Australian healthcare practitioners expertise in patient communication. This is particularly true for patients who present with challenging behaviours, such as anger or aggression. Improving the interactions during the consultation will improve satisfaction for both doctor and patients.

Learning outcomes

Identify skills required when working with difficult patients

Describe a plan for a difficult consultation including analysis of behaviour types

Describe the strategies for responding to difficult patients

Outline how to improve patient safety by de-escalating tense and complex situations where anger is a feature

Domains of General Practice

D1. Communication skills and the patient-doctor relationship

Effective communication is used in challenging situations

D2. Applied professional knowledge and skills

Appropriate mode of care delivery to suit the needs of the patient

D3. Population health and the context of general practice

Effective leadership improves outcomes for patients

D4. Professional and ethical role

Adherence to relevant codes and standards of ethical and professional behaviour

D5. Organisational and legal dimensions

Medico-legal requirements are integrated into accurate documentation

Curriculum Contextual Units

Adult health
Care of older people
Children and young people health
Individuals with disabilities
Men's health
Pregnancy care
Refugee and asylum seeker health
Residential care
Sex, sexuality, gender diversity and health
Women's health