Emotional intelligence in healthcare is important skill

THE EDITOR, Madam:

I am writing with reference to the, Letter of the Day ‘Emotional intelligence necessary for compassionate patient care’, published in The Gleaner on December 24.

Doctors do have emotional intelligence. In the same context, there is consistent evidence that demonstrates ‘physicians with high emotional quotient (EQ) and leadership skills can more easily reconcile the different challenges that contribute to burnout’.

‘A doctor may experience guilt, sorrow, anger, lack of control, or feelings of failure when dealing with a terminally ill patient’. Or they may also rejoice when they share good news and when patients are successful in their treatment goals. If doctors deal with demanding patients, they may feel angry or overwhelmed.

There are five key traits of emotional intelligence:

• Self-awareness: recognising and understanding your emotions – what you’re feeling and why – as well as appreciating how they affect those around you

• Self-regulation

• Motivation

• Empathy and

• Social skills.

There is a course called, ‘The emotionally intelligent physician leader’, which is designed to help learners develop deeper clarity about the nature, scope, and utility of emotional intelligence, specifically as it relates to the healthcare context.

Finally, emotional intelligence in the healthcare industry is an ‘an important skill set for maintaining safety in the healthcare environment.’

CARGILL KELLY