Saying hello to patients: there is no “one size fits all” approach

Launer makes a good point about the benefit of acknowledging patients with a simple “hello.”1There is no doubt that an unexpected greeting can make the recipient smile and feel recognised and that human interaction also gives the person saying hello a boost. This is becoming increasingly relevant in the modern world, where people can walk around immersed in their phones in the pseudo-world of social media. Insular behaviour and wariness of strangers are also increasing; in public places like buses, trains, and tubes, it is not uncommon for people to avoid eye contact or conversation.There might be an association between our overall happiness and our attitude towards strangers. But some people are introverted in nature, and others might be neurodivergent—both are represented in healthcare professionals—and might find it harder to be so interactive. I do not believe in a “one size fits all” approach or in pretending to be friendly….
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