PERCEIVED EFFECT OF COMMUNICATION SKILLS ON PATIENT HEALTH OUTCOMES AMONG IN-PATIENTS IN UNIVERSITY OF BENIN TEACHING HOSPITAL, BENIN CITY, EDO STATE

Abstract

Effective communication between health workers and patients is an essential component of quality healthcare delivery and positive patient outcomes. This study assessed the perceived effect of communication skills on patient health outcomes among in-patients at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Edo State. The study adopted a cross-sectional descriptive design, utilizing a stratified and convenience sampling technique to select 161 participants. A total of 161 questionnaires were distributed to in-patients, of which 156 were properly filled and valid for analysis, yielding a response rate of 96.9%. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0, employing descriptive and inferential statistics, including frequency distributions, mean scores, and chisquare tests. The results revealed that the majority of respondents (78%) had a positive perception of the communication skills of health workers, with a grand mean of 3.1, indicating that most nurses and other caregivers were polite, empathetic, and clear in their communication. Findings also showed a strong relationship between communication skills and patient satisfaction (grand mean = 3.2) and a significant influence of communication on treatment adherence (grand mean = 3.2). Major barriers identified included work overload, limited consultation time, lack of privacy, and use of medical jargon, with a grand mean of 3.1. Hypothesis testing using the chi-square (χ² = 5.768, p = 0.0112) indicated a significant relationship between communication skills and patient satisfaction. The study concludes that effective communication enhances patient satisfaction, trust, and adherence to treatment, leading to improved health outcomes. It recommends regular communication skill training for health workers, adequate staffing, and the creation of a conducive environment for private and effective nurse–patient interaction. Strengthening communication competence should be prioritized in nursing education and hospital policy to promote patient-cantered care and ensure optimal healthcare delivery. Keywords: Perceived, Effect, Communication, Skill, Patient, Health.

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urn:uuid:d795eca1-6604-499f-874f-66a365322451