Using medical improvisation to explore the role of everyday objects in patient-clinician communication

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BACKGROUND: Non-verbal behaviors are a critical component of building therapeutic relationships between patients and clinicians, but there has been relatively little research on how to teach these skills. METHODS: This study used improvisation methods including roleplay and storytelling to explore how objects and behaviors in the clinical environment impact on communication. Outcomes of the study were measured through standardized questions, responsive writing exercises, and focus group discussions. These were completed by a diverse group of twenty-two 4th-year medical students enrolled in a medical improv elective and analyzed by the investigators. RESULTS: Participating students reported new insights on how inanimate objects and non-verbal behaviors could inhibit or enhance clinical communication. They also developed awareness of power dynamics inherent to the spatial design of objects within clinical exam rooms. CONCLUSION: Medical improv techniques can help educators teach relationship-building behaviors related to non-verbal, affective aspects of clinical interactions.