Listening in busy settings
In busy health and care settings, listening often happens in the gaps between tasks. That makes it easy to listen only long enough to reply. A few small changes can help.
Three small habits
- Face the person and put down what is in your hands, even for a moment.
- Reflect back what you heard before you respond.
- Ask one open question before offering a solution.
Why it matters
People who feel heard are more likely to share what is really going on. That leads to better decisions, safer care and calmer conversations for everyone involved.