Chapter: 3 Medico Legal Aspects Of Communication

Medico Legal Aspects Of Communication

Objectives

After going through this unit, you should be able to

•    Explain the consequences of poor communication
•    Explain the importance of written communication
•    Understand the medicolegal significance of written communication

Introduction

In medical practice, the verbal communication which includes spoken an written words play an important role in the management of the sick person. Information pertaining to the sickness of the patient gathered during the conversation is written down in the case file and serves as a permanent record. The case file also contains advice on laboratory investigations, prescription of medicine, advice on diet, rest, physiotherapy etc. These instructions serve as doctors' order and are followed by the Nursing staff. The favorable outcome depends on the preciseness, accuracy and timeliness of the instructions. They become the part of the medical records and can be used to prove the adequacy of the treatment or the deficiency in cases of medical litigation.