During the current pandemic, the answer to that question is frequently “No!” because so many people are wearing masks. In fact, the Center for Disease Control would prefer that everyone wear a mask.
The Lone Ranger, Batman, and a host of superheroes wore masks over their eyes, but nowadays people are wearing masks over their noses and mouths. While that may contribute to everyone’s safety, it presents communication challenges in every workplace; especially in healthcare.
During a conversation, the facial expression provides an enormous source of feedback. In addition, in many cases, watching a person’s lips often facilitates hearing and listening. Covering your nose and mouth eliminates that. It also muffles your voice.
With all the current challenges confronting healthcare workers, not being heard or understood can be frustrating to workers AND patients. So, if you are wearing a mask, thank you! But be sure to speak a little louder, enunciate, and slow your rate of speech so listeners can hear and understand what you say even though they can’t see the look on your face.
Passion for Patients™ provides guidance to workers in all facets of the communication process in the healthcare industry. Contact us for more information.
