Body language and intimidation

We are limited, sometimes, how our bodies affect others.  Our knowledge of that impact is diminished because we are in our bodies.  Generally we know the amount of space we need to allow to pass through a small area, just like we know how to park our car.  But do we really understand, without the use of a wall size mirror, how we appear to others, especially to those who are vulnerable or frail, aka the very young or very old.

A recent study of this topic (http://www.fiercehealthcare.com/story/patients-passive-care-decisions-avoid-difficult-label/2012-05-07) revealed that 48 patients felt intimidated to question their healthcare choices.  The interesting thing about this study was that those with a lesser degree of education did not suffer from this block.
So how are we doing?

I recently had an enlightening situation.  A confused patient showed decreased signs of stress with  her facial expression and her calmer voice when I simply changed my body position from standing to sitting at the bedside, thus creating an eye level conversation.  This same patient, previously combative, allowed a RN to insert an IV when the same change was made, but this time~raising the bed. This is why classroom teacher chairs are small like their students chairs, so the instruction can be given at eye level.

Unless you have been in a hospital bed, medicated, in pain, maybe suffering from sleep deprivation or hunger, with a language barrier or hard of hearing, you can not gauge the importance of how others appear to you.  As in the case of the California study, it may~if negative body language is utilized~shut down communication. How unfortunate if this is the case! Take time to check your expression or tone of voice when you are being 'forced' to wait on the frailty or inexperience of others.  Every patient care experience is a privilege. Truly, in this case, a look can kill.