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Communication and complaints

Keeping a difficult interaction from becoming an unsafe one

CCOHS describes clear communication, attention to behaviour and safe ways to end a threatening interaction.

Canada guidance · Dealing with negative interactions

AI-assisted summary of the attributed source. The original publisher retains authorship of its publication. Local discussion prompts are our suggestions.

What the source explains

The resource addresses verbal and non-verbal communication, understanding concerns and recognising when an interaction needs to end. It also describes obtaining help and reporting what happened. Communication may help manage tension, but it cannot guarantee safety or make a worker responsible for another person’s violence. General advice about ending a service interaction must be adapted to healthcare duties and the institution’s emergency-care procedures.

Using this reading in your hospital

Practise short, respectful statements that explain the next available step without making promises the staff member cannot keep. Include a clear point at which staff withdraw and seek trained assistance. Keep the exercise focused on communication, not physical confrontation.

A question for your team

Can reception staff explain both the complaint route and the boundary against threats in language visitors understand?

Original source

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