Description
Has the thought “if only he would’ve told me that, I would’ve recommended a different type of wheelchair” ever come to your mind when you realize things aren’t going well with a client’s new piece of equipment? What about the thought “she is over the top with the demands” when you aren’t seeing eye to eye with a caregiver about her loved one’s CRT needs? If you can relate to either of those questions, you have probably experienced other communication breakdowns when attempting to provide the most appropriate CRT for a client and/or the best over-all client experience for him or her. Establishing a solid rapport with a client is vital to not only ensuring improved outcomes, but also to your client’s overall level of satisfaction. This educational session will provide participants with strategies to building effective professional relationships with their clients for successful outcomes in the provision of CRT.
Learning Outcomes:
The participant will be able to list and describe six key areas of communication to focus on to enhance your client-centered communication skills.
The participant will be able to identify at least three strategies to incorporate into the evaluation process to foster open communication and build rapport with clients.
The participant will be able to describe three examples of how information gathered outside of the traditional interview method, measurements, and diagnoses can impact the selection process for the most appropriate complex rehabilitation technology for a client.
Angie Kiger, M.Ed., CTRS, ATP/SMS is the Clinical Strategy and Education Manager for Sunrise Medical United States (US). She earned a Master of Education degree in Assistive Technology from George Mason University. Angie is an Assistive Technology Professional (ATP), Seating and Mobility Specialist (SMS), and a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS). Angie has over 18 years of experience working in the field of assistive technology. Prior to joining the Sunrise Medical team in 2012, she worked with infants, children, and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition to working as a clinician, Angie has served as an adjunct instructor at George Mason University and presented at numerous industry conferences in the US and abroad. She has written articles for trade publications and serves as a member of Mobility Management magazine’s Editorial Advisory Board. Angie is also a member of The Clinician’s Task Force.