| Veterinary communication has been researched in small animal contexts, and explored in dairy farm visits, though lacks evidence in equine farm settings. Audio-video recordings can be transcribed using the Roter Interaction Analysis System (RIAS), and provide much needed evidence identifying skills practiced as well as gaps within veterinary-client interactions. RIAS is a validated and applicable assessment tool for veterinary client consultations in primarily small animal and farming environments.
Our study investigated the use of communication skills delivered in equine wellness consultations by pre-clinical Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine (RUSVM) students, and explored equine owner perceptions. Here, we describe our approach. Five students participated in 25 equine wellness examinations under the supervision of an equine specialist. These were organized over three consecutive days across three different counties in rural Kentucky. An audio-visual team was hired to support with camera set up across locations, and outfitted students and clients with microphones for media capture. Following each consultation, clients completed a Client Satisfaction Questionnaire (CSQ) and recordings are being analyzed using RIAS. Onsite recordings are valuable and can be successfully captured and analyzed. Preliminary findings of CSQ support positive client-student interactions that addressed client’s education, and expectations while acknowledging the role of the animal patient. RIAS analyses will delineate specific skills that framed the interactions as well as identify priorities in enhancing the teaching and learning of communication skills. Outcomes will provide literature surrounding communication in rural equine settings, and identify skills to better appreciate communication across contexts for students and practitioners.
Authors:
*Mauldin Pereira, Mary; Assistant Professor of Clinical Communication Department of Clinical Sciences Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine Basseterre, St Kitts Artemiou, Elpida; Assistant Professor of Clinical Communication Department of Clinical Sciences Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine Basseterre, St Kitts De Pedro, Pedro; Assistant Professor of Large Animal Medicine Department of Clinical Sciences Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine Basseterre, St Kitts Adams, Cindy; Professor of Clinical Communication Department of Veterinary Clinical and Diagnostic Science University of Calgary Calgary, Alberta, Canada |