Pitfalls

Poor communication can lead to failures in the management of major incidents. It can also compromise individual patient care if incorrect information is transmitted.

Common pitfalls include

• Talking too quickly or quietly – know what you are going to say, and say it slowly and clearly enough to be understood
• Long, complicated messages – brevity is key, keep it simple
• Interrupting other users – listen before you speak
• Poor quality radio signals – radio checks are vital to ensure the signal is good

All methods of communication have weaknesses, and it is important to remember this and take steps to minimise errors and issues in information transmission.

Don’t forget, you aren’t communicating something so that you understand, you’re communicating something so that the other person understands.