What are some strategies the health care worker can use to conduct effective interviews?
For the patient interview to be effective and successful, a health care worker should • Explain to the patient the importance of the contact investigation for preventing and controlling TB • Ensure that the interview takes place under conditions that encourage effective communication • Establish the foundation for a good relationship with the patient based on mutual trust and understanding • Begin an assessment of the patient’s knowledge, feelings, and beliefs about TB and educate patient • Ask open-ended questions • Have a clear understanding of the interview’s objectives • Plan the interview so that each objective is given adequate time • Listen to the patient’s concerns about TB and its treatment • Share information freely with the patient
