La competencia de comunicación terapéutica en estudiantes de práctica profesional de Terapia Ocupacional: percepciones y opiniones desde los docentes

Introduction

Communication is key in Occupational Therapy and its effectiveness affects up to 20% of therapeutic results. It must be developed throughout the occupational therapists training and professional career, with internships being a critical period for the acquisition of these skills. This study explores opinions and perceptions about the importance and performance of communication competencies in Occupational Therapy students during their professional internships.

Methodology

Mixed sequential explanatory cross-sectional design, with a descriptive scope, in which 32 teachers participated through an online survey and individual interviews.

Results

The most relevant elements in relation to communication competence are: agreement on plans and problems, information, patient perspective and empathy. In addition, teachers found that the performance of communication competence in students improves at the end of professional internship.

Discussions

Communication competence is important, but there are differences in its assessment. Personal, curricular factors and teaching skills can influence performance. It is suggested to incorporate it into the curriculum from the beginning of training.

Conclusions

Communication competence is essential for occupational therapists, especially during their professional internships. Its continuous development should be encouraged so that students acquire clear and effective communication skills that promote therapeutic success.