There are dozens of branches in medicine, but only one focuses on the treatment of infants, children, and adolescents pediatrics. Children are innocent creatures oblivious to the complexities of the world.
Unlike an adult, a sick child is unhappy, fussy, and scared, making it quite challenging to deal with them. The parent also becomes fearful and stressed. Therefore, a skilled pediatrician should know how to put both the parent and child at ease.
Besides the basic pediatric medical training, a great pediatrician also requires to possess the following clinical skills;-
Good Listener
This is probably the most crucial clinical skill in healthcare, whether dealing with children, adults, or geriatric patients. Listen carefully to what the parent and patient are telling you. Plus, it would help if you read between the lines to what is being left out.
For example, if the guardian is worried about medical bills, they may leave out some crucial information. It is your task to note this and assure both the parent and child that they will get the care they deserve without having to worry about finances.
Great Communication Skills
Along with listening, you will need to convey crucial information to your patient and parent. Ensure you use the most straightforward language possible, speak at a measured pace, and use illustrations if you have to. Despite the age of your patient, nothing must be left unsaid, as children as intuitive creatures.
Socially Perceptive
It goes without saying that you will be dealing with patients from all sorts of religious and cultural backgrounds as a pediatrician. Therefore, you must appreciate the dynamics across race, gender, and religion.
This way, you will know how to welcome your patients and create a trusting environment without overstepping boundaries.
Observant
A larger portion of the patients you will be interacting with as a pediatrician are minors. As a result, their guardians will be doing most of the talking. Thus the pediatrician needs to be observant and intuitive.
Pay attention to the non-verbal cues of your patient for any abnormal or indifferent behavior. Stressed or abused children tend to be distant with sudden strange tendencies such as wetting the bed. If you suspect inconsistency in the details being provided, trust your intuition and take the appropriate measures.
Have a Way with Children
Most kids are afraid of hospitals. The thought of needles and interacting with anyone in a white coat freaks children. Even when with their parents, fear does not seem to dissipate.
Therefore, it would be incredibly useful if you would find a way to put children at ease. Try wearing scrubs or lab coats, funny cartoon characters, and be friendly. Always remember that making a child laugh is the easiest way to ease their anxiety. This way, the kid can explain his problem and let you examine him without causing a fuss.
Conclusion
Provision of quality healthcare in pediatrics while creating a good rapport with your patients requires practice and skills acquisition. The skills discussed in this text are just a glimpse of what you need as a great pediatrician.
