Physiotherapist–patient communication in entry-level physiotherapy education: A national survey in Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Clinical communication impacts on physiotherapy treatment outcome and its competence warrants being assessed during training for physiotherapists given the increasing need to improve patient outcomes. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the assessment of clinical communication in entry-level physiotherapy programs in Nigeria. Methods: In a cross-sectional survey, questionnaires were sent by e-mail or hand-delivered to the heads of physiotherapy programs, asking them to consult with faculty members involved in the assessment of clinical communication in undergraduate education. Results: Six of seven physiotherapy programs responded (an 86% response rate). Assessment of clinical communication and methods of assessing clinical communication by the programs showed wide variation. There was an average of two assessments per year. The objective structured clinical examination with patients (21; 38%) and written communications (report/chart) (13; 23%) were the most commonly used assessment methods. Perceived challenges included a lack of facilities, validity, inexperienced examiners, and difficulties in integrating processes and content. Conclusion: A variety of assessment methods are being used in entry-level physiotherapy programs in Nigeria, which target different components of clinical communication skills acquisition. More effort is needed to improve limited facilities and human resources training to enhance clinical communication assessment in Nigerian physiotherapy programs.

Patients’ and physiotherapists’ perspectives on implementing a tailored stratified treatment approach for low back pain in Nigeria: a qualitative study

“…A reason for this could be having previous knowledge from standard entry-level training that encompasses basic components of psychosocial care and evidence-based practice with an emphasis on communication as described by Abaraogu et al . 53 Other studies show physiotherapists had previous knowledge of the biopsychosocial approach. 54 55 This shows the viability of adopting a stratified care approach and ease of transition among physiotherapists.…”

“…This is consistent with previous knowledge; Sanders et al reported thoughtful obedience from physiotherapists51 and Odole et al 52 wrote about the willingness of physiotherapists to adopt innovative care methods. A reason for this could be having previous knowledge from standard entry-level training that encompasses basic components of psychosocial care and evidence-based practice with an emphasis on communication as described by Abaraogu et al 53. Other studies show physiotherapists had previous knowledge of the biopsychosocial approach 54 55.…”

Interpersonal Communication Message Types: Ranking of Importance by Kinesiology Undergraduates

“…Consequently, it has been claimed that 80% of patient complaints are the result of a breakdown in communication [3,7]. Moreover, it is the health care provider's (e.g., physician, athletic trainer, physical therapist), ability to design effective instructions, explanations, bad news messages, reassurance, advice, adherence to therapy regimen, and motivational attempts that are the messages at the core of patient interaction [7][8][9][10][11]. Of these, instructions relative to injury, rehabilitation, and return-to-play and explaining illness appear to be of greatest message importance to physical therapists and athletes [1,12,13].…”

SEGUE framework for developing communication skills in physiotherapy students

“…It has been observed that this important aspect is often neglected due to time constraints within the curriculum. 8 Hence, the authors felt the need for a comprehensive study of the effects of a structured framework like the SEGUE framework and its efficiency in teaching communication skills to physiotherapy students. 9…”