Is it appropriate to openly express negative feelings when communicating with patients?

In a healthcare setting, particularly in ophthalmology, maintaining a professional and supportive environment is crucial for delivering quality patient care. Openly expressing negative feelings can compromise the relationship between patient and provider, leading to increased anxiety or discomfort for the patient. Patients often seek not only medical care but also emotional support and reassurance, and expressing negative emotions can detract from that supportive atmosphere.

Moreover, healthcare professionals are expected to demonstrate empathy and professionalism, creating a safe space for patients to discuss their concerns. When negative feelings are expressed, it could undermine the trust and rapport that are essential for effective communication and treatment. Therefore, it is generally not appropriate to express negative feelings openly when communicating with patients, as this could adversely affect their experience and engagement in their own care.