Using Communication in Multiple Ways During the Pandemic
In this commentary, the authors reviewed recent literature about the health effects of quarantining during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although many of the effects may be negative, communication channels can help to re-establish social relations that may be weakened by isolation. Technology, cyberspace, the Internet, and virtual social networks have altered cultural values of family and relationships, but effective communication using these tools can help establish social connections that may have been lost with the lack of face-to-face communication.
Another way these communication tools have been used during the pandemic is to help teach adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to effectively engage in conversation exchanges. In this study, participants who used remote audio coaching increased their “small talk” skills and maintained their ability to do so after the intervention was completed. This is beneficial in a variety of settings including employment and postsecondary environments. Increasing social competence offers access to, and diversifies, various communities. Having the ability to learn in this way during the pandemic should prove to be beneficial to participants who engage in social situations after restrictions from the pandemic are lifted.
Nearly all areas of health care have been affected by COVID-19. Most organizations have had to alter their daily operations, and communication is key to making sure those transitions run smoothly. In this case study of a community hospital’s perioperative services department, the health care providers offer lessons learned to respond effectively to the pandemic. Effective communication, teamwork, and interprofessional and interdepartmental collaboration were essential for maintaining a safe environment for all involved. They found that brief, daily meetings to disseminate new and changing information was essential. Modifying communication processes to better serve personnel by providing accurate and up-to-date information was the first step in initiating any changes needed to provide effective care.
