A model for remote remediation to address communication deficits identified during clinical placement

Clinical case problem: Effective communication is vital for the successful transmission of information and has been attributed to better patient outcomes, patient satisfaction, and patient safety. Deficits in soft skills, such as communication, can be challenging to address due to a lack of standardized remediation strategies. This case report describes a student identified for inadequate communication skills during an intermediate clinical experience. To prepare the student for future clinical experiences, the faculty developed a comprehensive remote remediation plan. Case description: A four-step remote communication remediation plan was developed and implemented utilizing optimal-fidelity patient simulations. As the remediation occurred during a global pandemic limiting in-person contact, the scenarios were based on telehealth encounters and included faculty debriefing. A challenging communication component was embedded within each simulation. Outcomes including a communication survey to assess verbal and nonverbal skills, student self-reflection, and clinical performance assessment post-remediation demonstrating the transfer of newly acquired skills were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention. Implications: The remote remediation was effective. Careful planning ensured that all deficiencies were targeted using multiple teaching modalities. This remediation plan may be adapted to target other soft skill development and implemented for formative or remedial training, based on learning objectives and student needs.