Welcome

This course is for dental nurses seeking CPD against the GDC Safe Practitioner Framework Interpersonal Skills outcome I 1.3: Communicate effectively and sensitively, tailoring to context, by spoken, written and/or electronic means with all patients, including patients whose first language is not English (using representatives or interpreters where necessary), in relation to patients with anxious or challenging behaviour or special considerations such as emotional trauma, difficult circumstances such as breaking bad news, or discussing issues such as alcohol consumption, smoking, or diet.

SPF fit: This course supports the GDC Safe Practitioner Framework domain of Interpersonal Skills, sub domain Effective Communication. It focuses on learning outcome I 1.3 and maps to behaviour I(B)1: Communicate with care, compassion, empathy and respect in all professional interactions with patients, their representatives, the public and colleagues.

The Interpersonal Skills domain expects dental nurses to communicate with emotional awareness, care, compassion, empathy and respect. It also requires effective team working and attention to colleagues' wellbeing.

Why This Course Matters

• It is targeted: the course concentrates on a single SPF Interpersonal Skills learning outcome rather than broad communication theory.
• It is dental-nurse specific: examples relate to chairside care, reception cover, handover, record keeping, answering patient questions, working with interpreters, giving feedback, clarifying scope, and team collaboration.
• It keeps scope clear: dental nurses are guided on observing, supporting, explaining within their role, recording care, raising questions, handing over and escalating, without assuming responsibility for decisions beyond their competence.
• It supports professionalism: the material treats I1.3 as practical guidance for safe communication, preserving patient dignity and maintaining effective teamwork.

A Simple Learner Spine

• Tailor communication to the patient’s context, needs and preferences.
• Support communication when language, anxiety, trauma or behaviour affects care.
• Use interpreters or representatives appropriately.
• Discuss sensitive prevention topics respectfully and within scope.
• Escalate concerns when communication affects consent, safety or emotional wellbeing.